Oromia church officials count 60 deaths in two days of village raids

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church reported that at least 60 Christians died in two separate attacks this month in central Ethiopia. The killings occurred in the Oromia region on October 20 and October 24. Church officials released the figures on Monday.

Fourteen people were killed in Gora Silingo, Angada Kebele in Merti district on October 20. A second attack struck the villages of Tereta, Chole and Birbo in Shirka district on October 24, killing 46 more people. Both districts are located in the Arsi Zone. More than 20 survivors suffered serious injuries. At least 20 homes were burned down.

The church holy synod described the events as "extremely tragic cruelty and suffering inflicted on our citizens." It stated that the violence violated constitutional protections for life and religious freedom. The synod said the attacks threatened the country’s tradition of peaceful coexistence among different faiths.

Local media reports cite a government official who accused a newly formed rebel alliance of carrying out the raids. This group includes the Oromo Liberation Army. The OLA has previously denied allegations that it targets civilians. No group has formally claimed responsibility for the October attacks.

The Oromia regional government has pledged to pursue those responsible. The synod called on government institutions to publicly condemn the violence and strengthen civilian protection. It urged security agencies to provide additional protection to affected communities and take preventive measures against further violence. The church also announced it would seek discussions with senior government officials to address the security crisis.

The region faces continuing insecurity. Oromia is Ethiopia’s largest regional state and home to some 40 million people. Government forces have battled armed groups there for years. In July, the Ethiopian Human Rights Council reported that at least 432 civilians and four local militia members were killed in targeted attacks across East Arsi between 2021-22 and June 1 this year.

The church directed Orthodox churches and monasteries worldwide to hold special prayer services for the victims on Tuesday following the Divine Liturgy. It expressed condolences to bereaved families and called for urgent measures to allow followers to live and worship without fear.