Ethiopia’s Tigray Region Sees Fresh Tensions After Reports of Youth Roundups in Mekelle

July 4, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

Reports from Mekelle point to renewed tensions in parts of Ethiopia’s Tigray region after accounts emerged of young people being gathered and transported in buses under disputed circumstances, prompting protests from residents and a response from regional authorities.

Local residents said groups of youths were assembled from bus stations and hotels before being moved to an elementary school in the Ilala area of the city’s northern district, where they were reportedly held overnight. Those gathered included both local residents and individuals who had travelled to Mekelle from neighbouring areas for work.

According to residents who spoke about the incident to Tikvah Ethiopia, buses carrying the young people were later targeted with stones as members of the community attempted to block their movement. The attempt to halt the operation was unsuccessful. One young man with a pre-existing health condition was reportedly left behind, while others were taken to an undisclosed military training location.

The Tigray regional communication bureau acknowledged that an operation had taken place but said it did not follow the intended administrative direction. The bureau’s head, Abraham Hagos, said efforts aimed at strengthening internal capacity must be implemented through lawful procedures and mutual trust, adding that coercive practices are not acceptable. He said instructions had been issued for an investigation and for action to be taken against those responsible.

The incident has also drawn commentary from political figures in the region. Prof. Kindeya Gebrehiwot, a former interim administration official, said video material circulating online suggested forced recruitment activities were taking place in multiple locations. He also referenced a separate incident involving the temporary suspension of services at a bank branch following the detention of staff by armed personnel.

Prof. Kindeya described the reported actions as unacceptable and called for an immediate end to such practices. He warned that continued silence could deepen public suffering and urged stronger accountability, protection of civilians and respect for due process.

Source: FSX Business News