MAJETE, North Showa (EVN) – September 4 – Amid the ongoing conflict between Ethiopian federal forces and the Amhara Fano popular movement, reports indicate that 31 civilians have tragically lost their lives at the hands of the Defense Forces in the North Showa region of Majete. Eyewitness accounts, relayed to EVN sources, allege that the army, facing defeats on multiple fronts, has been involved in atrocities against innocent civilians, including shepherds.
A resident, who had suffered the loss of loved ones in the conflict, corroborated these distressing claims, asserting that the defense forces were responsible for the tragic loss of 31 civilian lives during a retaliatory action.
Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a family member shared a harrowing experience, stating, “Today, Monday, they forbade us from even retrieving the bodies or holding funeral services.”
The Defense Commander’s directive for residents of Majete to convene meetings has further exacerbated tensions in the town.
Local sources have also informed EVN that in the nearby Ensaro area, which has been engulfed in intense clashes, residents have been subjected to violent assaults and beatings by army members over the past 48 hours. Consequently, the majority of men from the region have sought refuge in the forest.
Meanwhile, although firmly under the control of security forces, there has been a significant decline in commercial and tourist activities in the city of Lalibela. While daily flights continue to operate, the absence of business and tourist-related pursuits has left the city largely dormant.
It has previously been reported that the army has detained young men and women and anyone suspected of supporting the Fano insurgents in several parts of Amhara region including Lalibela.
