Rachel Neguse

🚨 New report reveals over 1,925 Christians killed or missing, 43,000 displaced and 19 churches destroyed across six woredas in East Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia, since September 2023 A new report from Ethio Focus News based on information gathered from local sources documents widespread attacks targeting Christian communities across Asako, Guna, Hetosa, Merti, Shirka and Giju Woredas in East Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, between September 13th, 2023, and October 24th, 2026. The preliminary findings indicate that more than 1,925 Christians have been killed or gone missing, while over 43,000 residents have been forcibly displaced from their homes and properties. An additional 1,430 religious servants, including Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church priests and deacons, have reportedly been forced to flee their communities. According to local sources, the attacks involved extremist groups allegedly operating with the coordinated support of local officials and elements of the ruling Prosperity Party regime. The report further alleges that some of the perpetrators received training from ISIS and Al-Shabaab in Somalia, including areas stretching from Mogadishu to the Lower Shabelle Basin. The violence has reportedly resulted in the destruction or closure of 19 churches, the complete or partial burning and demolition of 5,420 residential homes, and the forced expulsion of Christian populations from 23 kebeles. The preliminary report provides the following breakdown of casualties, displacement and destruction: 1) More than 1,925 Christian civilians killed or missing. 2) More than 43,000 residents forcibly displaced from their homes and properties. 3) 1,430 priests and deacons forced to flee their communities. 4) 19 churches demolished or forcibly closed. 5) 5,420 residential homes completely or partially burned or demolished. 6) 23 kebeles emptied of their Christian populations through forced displacement and expulsion. Ethio Focus News stated that a comprehensive report containing additional details about the attacks, affected communities and destruction of religious institutions will be released at a later date.