At least 60 Orthodox Christians have been killed in two attacks in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, according to church officials. More than 20 others were seriously injured, while 20 homes were reportedly burned.
The attacks took place on October 20 and 24 in the Arsi Zone of central Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church condemned the violence on Monday and called for urgent government action.
The killings have raised fresh concerns about civilian safety and religious freedom in Ethiopia’s largest regional state.
Ethiopia church reports 60 deaths in Oromia
According to the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the first attack took place on October 20.
Fourteen people were killed in Gora Silingo, Angada Kebele, in the Merti district.
A second attack followed on October 24 in the Shirka district.
Church officials said 46 people were killed in the villages of Tereta, Chole and Birbo.
Together, the two incidents left at least 60 people dead.
The church also reported more than 20 serious injuries and the destruction of 20 homes.
These casualty figures were provided by church authorities and have not been independently verified.
Orthodox Church calls for urgent protection
The church’s holy synod described the killings as a serious attack on civilian life and religious freedom.
It warned that continued violence could threaten peaceful relations between Ethiopia’s religious communities.
Church leaders urged the government to strengthen security in affected areas.
They also called for investigations and legal action against those responsible.
The synod said authorities must take steps to prevent further attacks and protect communities facing threats.
Meanwhile, the Oromia regional government pledged to pursue those responsible.
Who is responsible for the Oromia attacks?
No group has publicly claimed responsibility for the latest killings.
However, according to media reports cited by Al Jazeera, a local official blamed a newly formed rebel alliance that includes the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA).
The allegation has not been independently established.
The OLA has previously denied accusations of attacking civilians.
The latest incidents come amid years of insecurity in Oromia, where government forces have fought armed groups.
The conflict has affected rural communities and disrupted daily life across parts of the region.
Years of violence in Ethiopia’s Oromia region
Oromia is Ethiopia’s largest regional state and has a population of approximately 40 million people.
Several areas have experienced prolonged insecurity, including attacks on civilians.
In July, the Ethiopian Human Rights Council reported that at least 432 civilians and four local militia members had been killed in targeted attacks across East Arsi.
The organisation said those deaths occurred between 2021–2022 and June 1, 2026.
The findings highlighted the continuing dangers faced by communities in the region.
The latest attacks have renewed calls for stronger protection and accountability.
Church announces prayers for victims
The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church said it would seek talks with senior government officials about the security situation.
It also announced prayers for those killed in the attacks.
Churches and monasteries around the world were instructed to hold similar services on Tuesday following the Divine Liturgy.
The church expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones.
It also called for urgent measures to ensure that people can live and practise their faith without fear.
As authorities investigate the attacks, communities in Oromia continue to face uncertainty over their safety.