Ethiopian doctors based in the capital, Bahir Dar, in the Amhara region, have reported that a significant number of civilians have lost their lives in recent clashes between local militias and government forces, as conveyed to the BBC.
A physician at the primary hospital in the city reported that the casualties encompassed not only adults but also included elderly individuals and a five-month-old infant.
Local residents recounted that a militia had seized control of a prison facility, resulting in the release of inmates.
Tensions have escalated since April, following the government’s announcement of dismantling regional forces throughout Ethiopia. This move sparked protests among Amhara nationalists, who argued that it would weaken their region.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the government noted relative tranquility in certain parts of the region, while actions were being taken to disband militias in the two largest cities, Bahir Dar and Gondar.
As a response to the situation, Ethiopian Airlines has declared the suspension of flights to four airports in the region, including Bahirdar and Gondar, for a duration of three days.