The death toll in Endeto has exceeded 36 after an attack on civilians, prompting rights monitors to demand an independent probe
By Staff Writer
(Nairobi, Kenya) — The death toll from last week’s armed attack on civilians in Endeto, Robe Woreda of the South East Zone (formerly East Arsi Zone), Oromia region, has risen past 36 after more victims succumbed to severe injuries in regional medical facilities.
Deutsche Welle Amharic reported that local residents confirmed funeral rites for 34 initial victims—killed during a morning attack by armed combatants on Friday, October 30, 2026—in Endeto. Out of ten critically wounded individuals evacuated to hospitals in Robe and Asella, at least two have died. Although the main road connecting Endeto to neighboring districts reopened after blockades, residents stated that security fears remain high, aggravated by ongoing telecommunications disruptions.
The massacre in Endeto follows recurring security breakdowns and targeted violence against civilians in Arsi. This incident occurred less than two weeks after an attack in neighboring Shirka Woreda, where human rights monitors confirmed the deaths of at least 48 civilians alongside widespread destruction of private property. Rights groups, church leaders, and local civil society organizations have repeatedly raised concerns over ongoing attacks targeting Orthodox Christian communities, clergy, and agricultural families across Arsi.
The Ethiopian Human Rights Council issued a statement expressing grief over the casualties, urging federal and regional authorities to launch an independent investigation into the Endeto attack and previous assaults on Orthodox Christian communities. The council emphasized holding perpetrators accountable while securing protection and humanitarian support for affected families.
Neither the Oromia regional government nor federal security authorities have commented on the latest casualties in Endeto. Additionally, the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA)—which local witnesses reported operating in the area—has not confirmed or denied involvement.
__
Join our Telegram Channel : t.me/borkena
Like borkena on Facebook
Join the conversation. Follow us on X (Formerly Twitter) @zborkena to get the latest Ethiopian News updates regularly. Subscribe to YouTube channel To share information or for submission, send e-mail to info@borkena.com
To Support Borkena : https://borkena.com/subscribe-borkena/ – one time support or small monthly options available. Inquire information about it : info@borkena.com