Ethnic violence in Hawassa and other towns of Sidama zone killed at least 35 civilians and displaced hundreds, as reported by Addis Standard and DW Amharic. The towns were rocked by violence on Thursday, July 18, and Friday, July 19, 2019.
Eyewitnesses told DW Amharic that 14 individuals were killed on Friday, July 19, 2019, in Hagere Selam town when police opened fire at youth who were walking to the federal police station to protest the killing of a youth by the police a couple of days ago.
Addis Standard spoke with a witness who said the death toll from Hagere Selam could increase. He said he had seen police shooting anyone they come across on the street. He had to flee after his brother was detained, and he added that the situation in the rural area is worse.
The report also noted that hundreds were displaced after having their properties damaged by angry mobs. The mobs burned down at least three churches in Hagere Selam, and eleven people were killed in Melga, reportedly by security forces. Towns including Yirgalem and Aleta Weodo faced massive property damages.
The authorities have yet to verify the number of deaths and property damages, but reports indicate that mass arrests have been made.
According to The Reporter, the violence occurred days after the Ethiopian Electoral Board announced that a referendum will be held to decide the statehood of Sidama zone.
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