Ethiopia: Violent unrest in Somali region August 3-4

Event

Violent unrest was reported in the Somali region of Ethiopia on Friday, August 3, and Saturday, August 4. The Ethiopian military deployed to Jigjiga on Friday evening (local time) and clashed with local paramilitary forces. According to reports, the president of the Somali region, Abdi Mohamoud Omar, was arrested by federal security forces. Violent protests have been reported in the town of Jijiga and Dhegahbur, with demonstrators setting fire to a church.

On Saturday, the UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office issued a travel advisory, warning individuals to avoid travel to the Somali region, as well as to the cities of Dire Dawa and Harar.  Although security forces have been deployed to the area, further unrest is possible in the coming hours and days. 

Advice

Individuals present in the Somali region of Ethiopia are advised to monitor the situation, avoid any large gatherings and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.