Three Orthodox Christians Killed in Separate Attacks in Ethiopia’s Oromia
Three Orthodox Christians were killed in separate attacks over two days in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, according to local residents and church sources, in incidents that have heightened concerns over the deteriorating security situation in parts of East Arsi Zone.
The attacks occurred in Asako district, where residents reported that armed assailants targeted civilians in two separate incidents on July 12 and 13, triggering fear and prompting several families to flee their homes.
The first attack took place in an area known as Dajam Yelew, where a 90-year-old Orthodox Christian was reportedly killed. Local sources told Mahibere Kidusan Television that the victim appeared to have been deliberately targeted, although the motive behind the killing remains unclear.
A second and more deadly attack occurred the following night in Bahru Ali, also in Asako district. Witnesses said heavy gunfire erupted between 11 p.m. and midnight, leaving Almaz Yeshaneh, 43, and her 37-year-old son dead after gunmen reportedly opened fire on their home. Their bodies were later transferred to Debre Tzion St. Mary Church in Asako for funeral preparations.
Residents who spoke anonymously, citing security concerns, described the attacks as unprovoked and said the violence sparked widespread panic across the community.
“People were running for their lives. We had no choice but to leave the area,” one resident told Mahibere Kidusan Television, adding that many families have sought refuge with relatives or relocated to nearby towns amid fears of further attacks.
The killings have deepened anxiety among the local Orthodox Christian community, which has repeatedly raised concerns over security in parts of Oromia. Church members expressed grief over the deaths and called for greater protection for civilians and places of worship.
No group has claimed responsibility for the attacks, and Ethiopian authorities had not issued an official statement at the time of publication.
Security forces are reportedly operating in the area to stabilize the situation, while displaced families continue to face shortages of food, shelter, and medical assistance.
The incidents add to a series of security-related attacks reported in parts of East Arsi in recent years, underscoring the persistent instability affecting communities in the region despite ongoing government security operations.
Source:- DNE AFRICA
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