At least nine people were killed in a deadly attack in the Shirka district of Arsi Zone, Oromia region, on Thursday. Residents reported that the victims included women and elders, while four individuals were abducted, their whereabouts unknown.
Witnesses stated that some victims were called from their homes and later killed near a river. Adebebu Workineh, a local resident, confirmed his younger brother was among those killed. The attackers, reportedly armed, have left the community fearful of further violence.
The Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), an armed group outlawed by Ethiopian authorities, has been accused by locals of carrying out the attack. However, a representative of the group denied any involvement and said they lacked information on the incident.
Videos circulating online appeared to show the burial of nine victims wrapped in white cloth. These claims could not be independently verified.
The attack occurred just one day after a faction of the OLA signed a peace agreement with the Ethiopian government in Addis Ababa. The agreement, aimed at silencing ongoing conflict in the region, was signed by key representatives from both sides. However, residents remain skeptical about its impact, citing repeated failures of past agreements to bring lasting peace.
The Arsi Zone, an area known for its agriculture, has been plagued by violence in recent years. Residents have criticized local authorities for failing to protect civilians, leaving communities vulnerable to such attacks.
The ENAT Party, an Ethiopian opposition group, condemned the killings and called for immediate government action to prevent further violence. “Authorities must act swiftly to safeguard lives and restore order,” urged the party’s secretary-general.
In November, peace rallies took place across six zones in Oromia, where participants condemned the OLA and advocated for peace. Regional officials claimed these demonstrations were organized by local communities, though some participants alleged government involvement.
Efforts to broker peace between the government and the OLA have faced repeated setbacks. Talks held in Zanzibar last year failed to achieve a resolution, with both sides blaming each other for the lack of progress. The recent attack underscores the urgent need for effective solutions to address ongoing violence in Oromia.