Over 40 killed in attack on Orthodox Christians in Ethiopia

At least 43 people were killed and 18 wounded on Saturday in an attack on villages, Orthodox churches and homes in Shirka district, in Ethiopia’s Oromia region, about 270 kilometres south of Addis Ababa. Residents put the death toll at between 44 and 51; one resident said their sister and uncle were killed and several relatives taken hostage. ACLED said the attack was believed to be religiously motivated and sparked clashes with local militias, while some residents sought refuge in nearby churches. Ethiopia’s Human Rights Commission said it was following the situation, but media restrictions have made independent verification difficult.