Deadly Attacks Target Ethiopian Orthodox Christians

Photo: Orthodoxy Cognate PAGE / Facebook

EAST ARSI, ETHIOPIA — Reports from Ethiopia’s Oromia Regional State indicate a wave of deadly attacks across multiple districts in East Arsi Zone, with local church sources and media accounts reporting the killing of more than 49 Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Christians, widespread displacement, and the destruction of religious property between May 31 and June 1, 2026.

The affected districts include Aseko, Sherka, Honkolo Wabe, and Munesa, where residents say coordinated violence led to the burning of homes, looting of livestock, and the targeting of churches. Among the sites reportedly destroyed was the 101-year-old Church of the Archangel St. Gabriel in Teleta Chefa, which was burned, while the Church of the Holy Savior in Kara Kuftena was reportedly looted. Local accounts also describe repeated prior attacks in some of the same communities, raising concerns about ongoing insecurity.

Displacement has been significant, with hundreds of families reportedly sheltering in nearby churches after fleeing their homes. Some church and media reports place the number of displaced at roughly 1,500 people, while noting that many others remain unaccounted for. A condolence list issued by Abp. Abune Elsa identified 13 confirmed victims by name, though figures vary across reports. Local officials provided limited confirmation, with some stating they had not yet received full information on the incidents.

At the same time, conflicting accounts have emerged regarding the scale and nature of the violence. While witnesses describe a coordinated attack involving armed militants, some local administrative officials and representatives of armed groups have disputed or minimized the reports. Independent verification of the casualty figures and circumstances remains ongoing.

Previously, the UOJ reported that Islamists killed around 22,000 people in Africa in one year, mostly Christians.

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