At least two Ethiopian regional governments have taken decisive action against businesses accused of exploiting the recent currency devaluation to inflate prices.
Dozens of shops have been closed, and individuals detained as authorities strive to curb soaring costs of basic commodities.
The Ethiopian birr plummeted by 28% against the US dollar this week after the central bank adopted a market-determined exchange rate.
While this move is intended to secure much-needed financial support from international lenders, it has triggered concerns about its impact on the general public.
Addis Ababa and Oromiya region have been at the forefront of the crackdown, with 71 and 19 businesses respectively ordered to close.
Officials claim these businesses were caught significantly increasing prices on food items, particularly after the currency adjustment. Cooking oil has emerged as a primary concern, with prices surging by as much as 30%.
The government maintains that the currency liberalization is essential for stimulating economic growth and attracting foreign investment.
However, critics warn that the policy could disproportionately affect low-income households already struggling with rising living costs.
As the situation unfolds, the government faces the challenge of balancing economic reforms with protecting its citizens from the negative consequences of these changes.