Ethiopia: Unidentified assailants kill three aid workers in Tigray region, June 24

Event

Unidentified assailants reportedly killed three staff members of Doctors Without Borders/Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) in the Tigray region, June 24. The assault took place while the victims - one Spanish citizen and two Ethiopian nationals - were traveling. Authorities have as yet released no details concerning the exact location or the nature of the attack.

Context

Ethiopia's northern Tigray region remains one of the most dangerous areas for aid workers despite the UN and other aid organizations' call for unimpeded access in the region. The June 24 attack follows similar incidents on June 1 in Adigrat. At least ten aid workers have reportedly been killed since fighting between government forces and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) broke out in early November. Most of the victims are Ethiopian nationals.

Advice

Exercise maximum caution if operating in Tigray region. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.