Gunmen killed eight people and injured at least four in Harkumbi Mender Hulet village, located in Limu Woreda of the East Wollega zone, on the night of November 30, 2020, as reported by Addis Maleda. The gunmen also kidnapped 17 farmers.
Eyewitnesses, interviewed by Addis Maleda, reported that the villagers were awakened by cries of fire at midnight and rushed to the field, thinking that the nearby church was in danger. The gunmen shot and killed eight people who arrived at the scene first and then retreated to hiding in the Waja forest. They also forcefully took 17 farmers with them.
Residents stated that no security forces pursued the gunmen or attempted to rescue the abducted farmers. This has left the community afraid to leave their village, as they may encounter the gunmen on the road. They expressed disappointment that their requests for security and the rescue of the kidnapped farmers have received no response from the authorities. According to the report, people believe that members of the Oromo Liberation Army or Shene are responsible for the kidnapping. When approached by Addis Maleda, the deputy commissioner of the Oromia region police declined to comment on the incident.
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