Deadly Attack in Abeshge Woreda Leaves Up to 17 Dead and Over 10 Abducted

A deadly attack in the Walga area of Abeshge Woreda, located in the Gurage Zone of the Central Ethiopia Region, has resulted in the deaths of approximately 17 civilians and the abduction of more than 10 others. Local residents and reliable sources informed Tikvah Ethiopia that security conditions in the area have worsened significantly since the rainy season, forcing some residents to flee their homes. Sources also revealed that over 34 million Birr has reportedly been paid in ransom for previous kidnapping victims in the area. Gurage Zone police confirmed that attacks took place but directed detailed inquiries to the regional Command Post overseeing security operations. Temesgen Kassa, head of the Central Ethiopia Region Peace and Security Bureau, confirmed the incident and blamed an armed group self-identifying as "Fano" for targeting civilians. Government security forces are reportedly conducting operations in the surrounding area to restore peace.