Nearly two weeks after a violent stint of unrest in Southern Ethiopia, the authorities have finally given an official number of people killed during the violence in Sidama zone of Southern Nations, Nationalities, and Peoples’ Region.
The Amharic branch of DW Germany confirmed from Commander Dagnachew Demissie, police head in the zone, that the number of people killed in Sidama zone between the 18th of July and the 22nd of July has surpassed 50, with the death tole reaching 53.
However 54 people were wounded during the same period according to the police chief of the zone, and as many as 935 suspects are in custody.
Regarding the destruction of properties, the commander confirmed that factories, convenience stores, hotels, as well as residential areas were also attacked and destroyed. An estimate of a property destroyed and looted is not yet ready from the government but the police commander said that a committee is working on that.
The violence was triggered following a Sidama referendum bid, which turned violent as security forces clashed with ethnic Sidama youth. The bulk of the fighting took place in the city of Hawassa and the surrounding districts.
We will keep you updated with the latest developments from the region.
Halgan Media
