Family of Worker Killed in Tulu Kapi Mine Attack Details Final Phone Call and Circumstances

A detailed account has emerged regarding the attack carried out two weeks ago at the Tulu Kapi Gold Mining Project in Genji Woreda, West Wollega, which resulted in multiple fatalities. Among the victims was Daniel Kelbesa, a father of four who had worked at the mining project for nine years and previously served in the Oromia Water, Mines, and Energy Bureau. On the day of the attack, gunmen who had surrounded the facility called his family using his mobile phone, asking political questions about his identity before shooting him. His body was later recovered inside his bedroom with multiple gunshot wounds to his head and chest, according to medical reports from Genji Hospital and family statements. Following the fatal incident, the Tulu Kapi Gold Mine project announced the suspension of its operations, citing the death of several individuals, including a staff member, community members, and security personnel. While local authorities attributed the attack to the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA/Shene), the group subsequently issued a warning to mining companies operating in the region.