Woldia is currently grappling with heightened tensions and restricted movement following a fierce conflict that erupted on Sunday evening, 13 October 2024. The clash, which involved heavy weaponry, began around 8:00 PM and persisted until midnight, according to local residents who spoke to Ethiopian media under the condition of anonymity.
One eyewitness recounted, “The sound of heavy gunfire started around 8:00 PM and did not cease until after midnight.” Reports indicate that a mortar attack originated from a nearby military base located close to the Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al Amoudi Stadium, targeting neighborhoods such as Machere, Jarsa Medhanialem, and Qalim.
Another local source detailed how “Fano forces” launched an offensive against a fortified defense position within the zone’s correctional facility, known as Gubo, and subsequently assaulted adjacent military camps. This informant noted that, upon recognizing the Fano militants, the defense forces responded with an artillery barrage.
Despite the intensity of the battle, there is uncertainty regarding the number of casualties among both civilians and military personnel. Additionally, reports emerged on Monday, 14 October, of continued gunfire in the Sunday market area, further indicating the ongoing violence and its impact on local residents.
Transportation has been significantly disrupted due to the clashes, which pose a serious security threat to the people of Woldia, the administrative center of the North Wollo Zone in the Amhara region. In recent weeks, violent encounters between Fano militants and government security forces have intensified across various parts of the Amhara region.
Residents of the Minjar Shenkora district in the North Shewa Zone reported that heavy fighting has been ongoing since 08 October 2024. One local stated that Balchi town, the administrative hub of Minjar Shenkora, faced heavy artillery fire, resulting in substantial destruction of homes from mortar impacts.
Battles have also flared in nearby regions, including Minjar Berket and Arerti. Reports suggest that the ongoing conflicts are leading to civilian casualties, further complicating the already tense situation.
Just two weeks prior, a devastating assault near Gondar City in the Amhara region resulted in at least 20 fatalities. According to local residents from Ayemba Kebele in the Dembia district, this tragic incident occurred on 29 September 2024.