The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (EOTC) has reported that more than 25 civilians were killed across the East Arsi Zone of Oromia Region during the month of October 2025, highlighting what it describes as a worsening pattern of targeted violence against Orthodox Christians.
According to a statement issued by the Church’s Public Relations Department, most victims were allegedly shot or stabbed to death by unidentified armed men. The Church said it compiled the figures through its diocesan network and local congregations.
“In total, during October, more than 25 innocent people lost their lives,” the department noted, describing the killings as part of a disturbing trend that has persisted for several years.
Recent incidents
In one of the latest reports received by the Church on October 28, five people were killed in the Honqolo Wabe (Siltana) district, with early indications suggesting that the victims belonged to the same family.
Additional accounts obtained by local sources indicate that on October 27, gunmen attacked residents of Hela Zibaba Kebele in Shirka Woreda, East Arsi Zone, killing three civilians and abducting four others. Witnesses described the incident as a religiously motivated assault carried out around 10 p.m.
Eyewitnesses, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the attackers went door to door before forcing victims out of their homes and executing them.
Ongoing pattern of violence
A local priest told Church media outlets that attacks of this nature have been occurring in the region since 2021, with more than 190 people reportedly killed in similar incidents over the past four years. The motive and identity of the perpetrators remain unclear.
“Those killed were followers of the Orthodox Tewahedo faith,” the religious father confirmed, urging authorities to ensure accountability and protect vulnerable communities.
The EOTC said it plans to submit the full details of the killings to the appropriate national authorities for investigation.
Editor’s Note: This article is an independently written summary and analysis based on publicly available information and official statements, including reports from APA News (October 29, 2025).
