At Least 60 Killed in Attacks in Ethiopia’s Oromia Region

2026, October 27

Ethiopia

At least 60 people were killed in two attacks in Ethiopia’s conflict-affected Oromia region, according to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church. The church reported that 14 people were killed in Merti district on 20 October and another 46 in Sherka district on 24 October. More than 20 homes were reportedly burned, and over 20 people were hospitalised with serious injuries. Responsibility for the attacks remains disputed.

The killings highlight the continuing insecurity in Ethiopia, where armed conflict and political tensions have contributed to repeated violence against civilians. Regional authorities blamed a rebel alliance, while a source connected to the alliance accused the regional government. The allegations have not been independently established, and the attacks risk aggravating existing tensions between communities.