Ethiopian Orthodox Church Reports 60 Dead in Arsi Zone Violence

October 27, 2026 | By Semahegn Nigatu

The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church has called for urgent government intervention after reporting that 60 of its followers were killed in attacks in Arsi Zone, Oromia region, between October 20 and 24.

The Church’s Holy Synod said the violence also left more than 20 people severely injured and destroyed 20 residential houses. The injured remain hospitalised in critical condition, according to the statement issued on Monday.

The deadliest incident reported by the Church occurred on October 24, when 46 people were killed in attacks in the Tiruta, Chole and Birbo areas of Shirka Woreda. A separate attack in the Gora Silingo area of Merti Woreda on October 20 killed 14 people, the Synod said.

The Church said it would seek high-level talks with senior government officials to address the security situation and strengthen protection for Orthodox Tewahedo followers.

The Synod characterised the latest incidents as part of a continuing pattern of violence, displacement and property destruction affecting Orthodox Christians in Arsi Zone and other parts of the country.

The reported killings follow previous deadly violence against Orthodox Christians in Arsi Zone, including incidents in June 2026.

The statement did not identify those responsible for the latest attacks or provide further details about the circumstances surrounding them. The casualty figures and allegations have not been independently verified.

Source: FSX Business News