More than 60 people have been killed in a series of attacks targeting Christian communities in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, according to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, prompting fresh concerns over civilian safety in the conflict-affected area. The attacks reportedly struck three areas in Shirka district. The church’s Holy Synod said at least 20 houses were burned to the ground, while eyewitnesses who spoke to BBC Amharic reported that five of those killed were children. One resident, whose 75-year-old father died in the violence, described the incident as an ambush. He said attackers surrounded the community from several directions, leaving residents unprepared to defend themselves. A church official described the killings as a “massacre” and said security forces arrived but were unable to stop the assault. The violence has forced many residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
The regional government has pledged to take action against those responsible. A local official blamed a newly formed rebel coalition known as the Alliance for Survival, which includes the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA). However, the church’s statement did not identify the perpetrators, and the OLA has not commented on the latest allegations. Ethiopia’s Oromia region has experienced years of armed conflict involving government forces and insurgent groups, particularly the OLA. The violence has contributed to civilian displacement and recurring security concerns. Authorities have yet to provide a comprehensive account of the attacks, and the identities of those responsible remain unconfirmed.
