Armed Group Attack in Kamashi Zone Leaves Two Dead and Thousands Displaced

A heavy attack by armed groups targeted the Anger Meti (Aishanjidim) kebele in Mizhiga Woreda, Kamashi Zone of the Benishangul-Gumuz Region. Regional council member Lemessa Neno and local residents confirmed that at least two people were killed, while residents estimated that over 5,000 people have been displaced into nearby forests and more than 1,000 homes were burned down using fuel. The assailants, attributed by residents to armed groups often called 'Shene' or 'Gada Commando,' also destroyed grain stores and looted hundreds of livestock. Local residents noted this was the third major attack on the kebele this year alone and criticized the delayed response of security forces despite advance warnings. Kamashi Zone Communication official Boka Abose confirmed the incident, stating that anti-peace forces caused severe damage along the border area with the Oromia Region and that a full damage assessment is currently underway. Ethiopian National Defense Forces have reportedly entered the area to locate and assist displaced civilians.