Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Addis Standard
Published on 2024-03-20 15:35:17
Many people have lost their lives in the Oromo special zone of the Amhara region due to a series of coordinated attacks carried out by the Fano militia and uniformed regional police forces. The attacks have resulted in at least 27 deaths and over 40 injuries since March 9th, as reported by local residents.
The violence began in the Jille Dhumuga district of the zone, with the first attack occurring in Kolashi village on March 9th, leaving one person dead and two others injured. The attacks have since escalated, spreading to multiple villages in the district, causing more casualties, destruction of homes, and looting of properties.
Over a period of 10 days, 27 people have lost their lives in various villages, while 40 others have survived injuries. Among the victims are women, children, and elderly individuals. Some of the injured individuals are currently receiving treatment in Adama, with others undergoing treatment in nearby towns due to closed roads between Addis Abeba and Dessie.
Footage of burning villages and injured individuals in Adama hospital has been shared on social media, although the authenticity of the videos could not be independently verified. Online fundraising campaigns have also been initiated to support the victims of the attacks.
Local residents from affected villages such as Karra Abba Karcho have reported multiple deaths within the same family across different villages. The attacks are believed to be targeting ethnic Oromo residents, with threats to displace them and claim the land as Ahmara territory.
Efforts to obtain comments from local officials regarding the ongoing attacks have been unsuccessful. The Oromo Special Zone and the nearby North Shoa zone have been hotbeds of violent clashes involving various militias, government security forces, and armed residents.
In previous incidents, similar violent clashes have resulted in a significant loss of life and displacement of civilians. The Amhara region is currently under a state of emergency, which was first imposed in August of the previous year and recently extended for an additional four months.
The cycle of violence and displacement in the region continues to pose a threat to the safety and security of residents. It is essential for authorities to take urgent steps to address the root causes of these conflicts and provide protection and assistance to those affected by the ongoing violence.
Read the original article on Addis Standard
