Ethiopia: Armed men attack village in Afar region October 12

Event

Regional officials confirmed on Monday, October 14, that a group of unidentified gunmen attacked a village in Afar region over the weekend. The attackers killed at least 16 people in the village of Obno, in Afambo district, on Saturday, October 12. Another 30 people were also wounded in the incident. Local security officials said that an investigation into the attackers is ongoing.

Further violence is possible in the near term.

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. 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 Afar 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.