Police Officer Killed During Dispute in Gofa Zone, South Ethiopia Region

A police officer, Assistant Inspector Milkias Daniel, was killed on October 15, 2024, in Demba Gofa Woreda, Gofa Zone of South Ethiopia Region, amid a conflict over the installation of an electricity transformer. The dispute arose between residents of two sub-villages regarding where the transformer should be placed, leading to a violent confrontation. While attempting to mediate and calm the situation, the officer was attacked and stoned to death by individuals, while his colleagues managed to escape. Fellow officers have expressed their grief and urgency, calling for the rule of law to be enforced and for an immediate end to the senseless killing of security personnel. Local authorities in the Woreda and Zone have not yet provided official details, stating they are currently occupied with funeral arrangements. This incident follows a similar violent event about a month ago in the nearby Gamo Geresse area, which resulted in the deaths of over 10 police officers.