Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church reports 60 deaths in Oromia region

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church has recorded a death toll of 60 for two separate attacks in central Ethiopia.

Church officials said the violence occurred in the Oromia region on Oct. 20 and Oct. 24. The holy synod released the figures on Monday, describing the events as "extremely tragic cruelty and suffering inflicted on our citizens." The report stated that more than 20 people were seriously injured and 20 homes were burned down.

The 60 victims were split across two locations in the Arsi Zone. Fourteen people died in Gora Silingo, Angada Kebele in Merti district on Oct. 20. Another 46 died in the villages of Tereta, Chole and Birbo in Shirka district on Oct. 24. Both districts are part of central Oromia.

The synod said the attacks violated constitutional protections for life and religious freedom. It noted that the violence threatened Ethiopia's tradition of peaceful coexistence among different faiths. Church leaders called on government institutions to publicly condemn the raids. They also demanded strengthened civilian protection and the prosecution of those responsible.

The Oromia regional government pledged to pursue the killers. Media reports indicate a local official accused a newly formed rebel alliance that includes the Oromo Liberation Army, or OLA, of carrying out the attacks. The OLA has previously denied allegations of attacking civilians. No group had claimed immediate responsibility as of the church's report.

The region has experienced years of insecurity. Oromia is Ethiopia's largest regional state and home to some 40 million people. Government forces have battled armed groups there for years. The Ethiopian Human Rights Council reported in July that at least 432 civilians and four local militia members had been killed in targeted attacks across East Arsi between 2021-22 and June 1 of this year.

The synod announced it would seek discussions with senior government officials to address the security crisis. It directed Orthodox churches and monasteries worldwide to hold prayer services for the victims on Tuesday following the Divine Liturgy.