In a shocking act of violence, armed men in Ethiopia's Oromia region have reportedly abducted up to 50 bus passengers traveling from the capital, Addis Ababa, to Debre Markos. This incident highlights an alarming trend of civil abductions in the area.
Dozens of Passengers Abducted from Bus in Ethiopia's Oromia Region
Dozens of Passengers Abducted from Bus in Ethiopia's Oromia Region
Bus passengers traveling from Addis Ababa were taken hostage by armed men in Oromia, raising concerns over safety and security.
The incident occurred in Ali Doro earlier this week and has drawn parallels to a similar abduction of university students last July. Local authorities and survivors pointed fingers at the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), a rebel group working toward self-determination for the Oromo ethnic group. However, the OLA has denied involvement, stating that they were investigating the reports. According to eyewitness accounts, at least one person died during the attack, which saw armed assailants exchange fire with local security forces. The federal government has remained silent on the matter, intensifying community fears. Abductions for ransom have become increasingly common in Oromia, with armed groups exploiting the situation. The OLA, previously classified as a terrorist organization by Ethiopia’s federal parliament, operates widely in the region, complicating the ongoing security challenges.
The situation underscores the urgent need for effective law enforcement and community safety measures in the face of escalating violence.
The situation underscores the urgent need for effective law enforcement and community safety measures in the face of escalating violence.
