Ethiopia: Deadly landmine explosion between Benishangul-Gumuz and Oromia regions Dec. 19

Event

At least ten people were killed and another injured when a minibus hit a landmine near the border between the Benishangul-Gumuz and the Oromia regions on Wednesday, December 19. An investigation is ongoing to determine the reason behind the attack. Similar attacks are possible in the near term.

Context

Intercommunal violence has increased in recent weeks in both regions, prompting more than 100,000 people to flee. The border area is particularly affected, along with the town of Moyale in the Oromia region.

Advice

Individuals in Oromia and Benishangul-Gumuz are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate further protests, a heightened security presence, and associated transportation and business disruptions, and avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of violence.