Ethiopia: Security incident reported in Mekelle, Tigray Region, April 21

Event

According to uncorroborated reports, armed individuals opened fire on civilians in Mekelle April 21. The nature of the incident is currently unclear but casualties have been reported. It is also not clear if the incident is linked to the greater conflict in the region; however, similar fatal violence resulting from interactions between security forces and civilians has been reported in recent months.

Protests by locals in response to the incident are possible. Security force operations and protests could result in localized ground travel disruptions.

Advice

Monitor for updates. Exercise caution in or near Mekelle. Heed the directives of the local authorities. Avoid large crowds