Militia Attack in East Gurage Zone Leaves Seven Dead and Four Kidnapped

Residents of Sodo Woreda in the East Gurage Zone of the Central Ethiopia Region reported that an attack by armed militants resulted in the deaths of seven people and the abduction of four others. According to local witnesses who fled to Bu'i town, the attack occurred in the Sutan area, starting around mid-day with heavy weaponry. The victims reportedly include six defense force veterans and local militia members, along with one farmer. Residents attributed the assault to the armed group referred to by the government as OLF-Shene, stating the militants controlled Sutan for half a day and looted commercial shops before departing in the evening. Locals highlighted that repeated attacks have occurred in nearby areas like Tiya and Mikael Semero, causing displacement and fatalities. Fearing ongoing insecurity, residents are calling for immediate federal government intervention to restore order, while regional security officials declined to provide immediate comments.