Intense clashes erupted between Ethiopian military contingents and unknown Armed assailants in the volatile Wollega province according to the Oromo branch of BBC News.
Troops engaged in a firefight with culprits in the Gawo Kebbe district. What prompted the clashes remain unknown. The security chief in the area, Habtamu Tamiru was quoted as saying “former OLF fighters killed in exchange of fire with ENDFs.” in an interview with the BBC Oromiya services.
The Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) rebel group did not comment. However residents in the town that where interviewed by BBC Oromiya gave contradicting statements in there interview claiming the people killed where actually civilians.
A total of five unidentified males where spotted lying in a pool of blood following the clashes. No group has claimed responsibility for the clashes. The bodies of the deceased victims where taken to a morgue shortly afterwards.
Wollega province in Ethiopia’s southwest has become a hub for militant activity, as various armed Oromo factions and paramilitary groups operate in the area. Numerous clashes have also taken place in the region between Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) and insurgent groups.
We will keep you updated with the latest developments from the region.
Halgan Media
