By Staff Writer
Nairobi, Kenya – Two archbishops from the newly formed Menbera Salama Kasate Berhane Synod in Tigray are reportedly under house arrest following what the Synod described as an assassination attempt in Aksum city.
Family members told the BBC that the archbishops have remained under strict security restrictions since July 11, 2026.
The Synod previously issued a statement confirming that gunfire targeted the homes of Abune Natnael and Abune Aragawi, describing the incident as an “assassination attempt.”
According to Abune Natnael, the shooting occurred late at night and damaged part of the building where Abune Aragawi lives.
Police in Aksum later arrested three people in connection with the attack and said they had increased security around the clerics’ homes.
On July 12, police took both archbishops to a station for questioning. Their assistants said police accused the archbishops of serious crimes but did not publicly specify the alleged offenses, and requested 300,000 birr in bail for each of them.
The archbishops were released the same day after paying bail. However, they have reportedly faced restrictions on their movement and communication since returning home. Their phones are reportedly disconnected, and visitors are not allowed to enter or leave the house.
Some supporters believe the restrictions may be connected to recent comments by Abune Natnael about reports of forced military conscription in Tigray.
He asked officials to “keep their hands off the Church” and criticized the reported transfer of students to military camps. His comments sparked discussion on social media, and some supporters believe they may have contributed to the pressure facing the clerics.
Despite the accusations, Abune Natnael said he had simply expressed his views.
“I said what I believe is true. It will serve the country and future generations. I don’t regret it,” he said.
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