In a shocking incident earlier this week, armed men abducted numerous bus passengers in Oromia, Ethiopia’s largest region, while they were traveling from the capital city, Addis Ababa. This alarming event has raised significant concerns about safety and security in the area.
Details of the abduction
The kidnappings occurred in Ali Doro, a location previously associated with similar incidents. Notably, last July, around 100 university students were taken in a comparable ambush as they returned home from campus. Local authorities and survivors have attributed these previous abductions to the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), a rebel group that frequently operates in this region, although the OLA denied involvement at that time.
In relation to the recent abductions, the OLA stated that it is aware of the incident and is currently “conducting an investigation.” According to reports from a local media outlet, the abducted passengers were en route to Debre Markos, a town located in the Amhara region, when they were attacked by the armed assailants. Eyewitness accounts indicate that gunfire erupted between the attackers and local security forces during the incident.
Growing concerns over civilian safety
While details remain sparse, some reports suggest that as many as 50 individuals may have been taken hostage, with at least one casualty reported during the violent confrontation. The Ethiopian government has yet to issue an official statement regarding these kidnappings, and attempts by various media outlets, including the BBC, to obtain a response have been unsuccessful.
The frequency of civilian abductions, particularly targeting passengers, has notably increased in Oromia. Armed groups operating in the area have previously demanded ransoms for the release of hostages, heightening fears among local populations. The OLA claims to be advocating for the self-determination of the Oromo people, Ethiopia’s largest ethnic group, but it has been designated a terrorist organization by the federal parliament and remains active in various districts within Oromia, including Ali Doro.