Over 40 killed in attack on Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia.
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At least 43 people have been killed and 18 others wounded in an attack targeting villages, Orthodox Christian churches and homes in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, according to residents and a conflict monitoring organisation.
The attack occurred on Saturday in Shirka district, about 270 kilometres south of the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.
Residents and the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project (ACLED) reported the casualties to AFP on Monday, with local accounts suggesting that the death toll could be higher. ACLED said the attack was believed to be religiously motivated and targeted Orthodox Christians, adding that it triggered clashes with local militias that continued through Saturday afternoon and evening. A resident told AFP by telephone that the attack claimed the lives of two family members, while several relatives were reportedly taken hostage in Chole ward of Shirka district. “My sister and uncle were killed, and several of my relatives were taken hostage in Chole ward of Shirka district,” the resident said, requesting anonymity.
MSEApp News is publishing an original rewrite of this tip for readers, based on reporting associated with Vanguard.