Sidama Media Network executives appeared at the high court in Hawassa, the regional capital of SNNPR in Ethiopia’s volatile southern region according to a report published on the Amharic branch of DW Germany.

Getahun Deguye, executive director of Sidama Media network, his deputy Tariku Lemma and Belay Balguda where detained last week and appeared in court. Police suspected the duo of coordinating xenophobic mob violence that rocked SNNPR during mid July.

Thr violence began due to the Sidama referendum request. A total of 53 people where killed and 54 more where wounded between the 18 and 24th of July according to a SNNPR police commander that spoke with the Amharic branch of DW Germany. Three Orthodox Churches where also burned down in the violence.

Both officials from the Sidama Media Network that appeared before where charged with a slew of crimes including inciting ethnic violence and destruction of private property.

We will keep you updated with the latest developments and updates from the region.

Halgan Media.