Dozens killed in western Ethiopia – witnesses

Survivors of an attack last week in a town in Ethiopia’s western region have told the BBC that they have not received any help.

Residents said at least 55 people were killed. They said the Fano militia – affiliated with the Amhara ethnic group – was behind the attack, but there has not been any comment from them.

“My father Mosisa Jemma who was 108 years old was killed. He was a very old man who can’t get out of his house. People who were able to run and hide in the forest saved their lives,” a local teacher told the BBC.

Another survivor gave details of the number of the victims.

‘’We have managed to bury 55 dead bodies. They include infants who were found in flood waters. Following the attack by Fano, people fled the area.’’

The authorities are yet comment on the incident, however Ethiopia’s human rights body told the BBC it will open an investigation.

Armed groups affiliated with different ethnic groups have been blamed for several attacks targeting civilians.