Ethiopia: At least 22 killed in recent violence in Amhara region Oct. 3 /update 1

Event

Several engagements between regional security forces and an ethnic minority group have taken place in Amhara region between Friday, September 27, and Thursday, October 3. The first incident occurred on September 27, when unidentified armed men ambushed a minibus traveling to the city of Gondar, killing ten people. A military convoy was also attacked on the following day, leaving at least 12 soldiers dead. As of October 3, at least 17 militia members have also reportedly been killed in the fighting. On Wednesday, October 2, the US Embassy in Addis Ababa ordered all US government personnel to defer travel to the region due to the ongoing unrest and violence. 

Further clashes are possible in the near term in Amhara region.

Context

According to a government report released on September 25, at least 1000 people have been killed across Ethiopia in the last 12 months as a result of inter-ethnic conflicts. An additional 1.2 million people have been displaced due to the uptick in violence, which has largely occurred in the regions of Oromia, Amhara, and Tigray. Self-administration and statehood demands by Ethiopia's disparate ethnic groups have caused great tension since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed assumed office in April 2018.

Advice

Individuals in Amhara region, and Ethiopia more generally, are advised to monitor developments to the situation, remain vigilant for militant activity, avoid any large gatherings and demonstrations due to the risk of violence, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities or their home governments.