ADDIS ABABA, EVN (August 8) — Ethiopian authorities confirmed Saturday that they arrested individuals linked to the security crisis in Amhara region amidst escalating clashes between local fighters and federal troops.
The Government Communication Service said in a press conference that a command center overseeing and coordinating the implementation of the emergency degree has initiated arrests of individuals deemed to be aggravating issues and providing directions related to the ongoing uprising in the Amhara region.
In a press conference given by Dr. Leges Tulu, the Minister of Government Communication Services, he highlighted the security challenges in the region. According to Dr. Legese, the security breach in the Amhara region was fueled by those who refused to accept the peace agreement, using war as a means to gain income and glory. He accused these individuals of engaging in armed uprisings to bring about regime change and subvert the constitution.
The fresh unrest in Africa’s second most populous country comes in the wake of a devastating two-year war in the neighboring region of Tigray, which also involved fighters from Amhara.
The government imposed a six-month-long state of emergency on Friday, stating that the emergency measures would cover Amhara for six months and could be extended nationwide in response to any situation or movement that aggravates the security problem.
Tensions have been mounting since April when the federal government announced the dismantling of regional forces across Ethiopia, sparking protests from Amhara nationalists who feared the move would weaken their region.
Recent weeks have seen a surge in clashes in Amhara, prompting travel warnings from foreign governments and the suspension of flights. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s office declared the need for emergency measures “to control this unacceptable movement.”
The government communications service announced that individuals who exacerbate the security crisis and engage in acts of destruction have been arrested. However, specific details about the number of detainees and the timing of the arrests were not disclosed.
According to the emergency decree, violators of its provisions could face imprisonment ranging from three to ten years, and suspects could be searched and detained without a warrant.
Residents reported that local fighters from Amhara’s Fano militia have taken control of three towns in the region. In Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient rock-cut churches, Fano fighters seized control of the town and its airport earlier this week.
Though shops were open on Saturday, the streets were largely deserted, with intermittent power and internet outages affecting the town.
Similar tense situations were reported in the cities of Gondar and Dessie, where Fano fighters were said to be blocking routes in and out of the cities. While markets and shops were open in Dessie, residents remained on alert.
The United States has expressed concern about the violence, and both Britain and Spain have issued travel warnings for parts of Amhara.
