By Borkena Staff
Borkena, Toronto — The Ethiopian Defense Force on Wednesday claimed it had killed 230 Fano fighters in operations conducted in the Gojjam and Gondar areas of the Amhara region.
The army said the Eastern Command carried out what it described as a “law enforcement plan” implemented between June 17 and June 23 in North Gojjam, West Gojjam, Awi Zone, and South Gondar areas of the Amhara region.
A news release shared on the Defense Force’s social media page mentioned several individuals it identified as Fano leaders. Among those named as killed in the operation were Getachew Ayana, Erkyihun Tamene, Alemu Mola, Mihret Tilahun, Abebe Asnakew, and Getnet, according to the statement.
It also stated that leaders of logistics and operational divisions, including Mamush, Worku (finance division), Melkamu (operations head), and Workneh Dshk, were killed. However, the statement did not specify which individuals were linked to which specific operations.
The Ethiopian Defense Force’s claims have not been independently verified. Journalists and human rights organizations have faced restricted access in the Amhara region since the conflict between Fano forces and government troops started in August 2023.
The Defense Force did not disclose whether there were any casualties on its own side.
The Amhara Fano National Movement (AFNM) has not commented on the claims made by government forces. It was rather making its own claims of military gains in South Gondar and Gojjam. Video footage purportedly showing captured government forces has been circulating on social media over the past few days.
The statement from the defense force attributed the operation to Brigadier General Addisu Mohammed, commander of the Eastern Division Corps, Brigadier General Melaku Gelaneh, deputy corps commander, and Colonel Lijalem Mitiku.
The Defense Force also said Amhara regional security forces participated in the operation aimed at “annihilating and capturing the enemy.”
It further stated that vehicles, motorbikes, and other logistical supplies were seized during the operations.
The Ethiopian Defense Force has repeatedly claimed over the past three years that it has achieved decisive victories over Fano forces, stating that remaining operations are focused on “clearing pocket areas.”
However, accounts from sources claiming links to Fano forces and social media posts suggest that Fano units continue to operate across much of the Amhara region. Earlier this month, the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia acknowledged that it was unable to conduct elections in more than 140 locations in the region due to security concerns.
Reports also indicate that Fano forces have extended operations beyond the Amhara region. In May, they reportedly killed Brigadier General Asnake Aytenew and several other senior military officers in Wollega. Another Fano operation was reported this week, with claims of a significant military victory against government forces.
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The claims of Abiy Ahmed`s forces are usually exaggerated and can not be trusted. The major challenge in the Amhara resistance against the regime of Abiy Ahmed is his policy and relative success to use Amhara forces (traitors) against Amhara Fano. As long as the Amhara do not get rid of the traitors Abiy Ahmed will continue to wage war in the region. Tigray decimated the forces of Abiy Ahmed because there are not traitors in the country. The Amharas must do something about the traitors.
You are a 100% correct. This is the time Fano forces to eliminate the enemies amongst themselves. There should be extreme measures against those who wage war against the Amara people from near and far.
Collaborator (banda) fri Amhara region will be more effective in its resistance against the brutal regime of Abiy Ahmed. Collaborator fri Tigray is a shining example for all.
What did I tell you? The beauty contest is in swing. This is the talent section, I guess. So far none of them even close to mine. In my recent military communique I told you how my indomitable Itu army decimated 20 divisions of Jula’s defense forces. None of them can top that. I’m heading to New York to declare the founding my Republic of Ituwania at the next UN General Assembly meeting this coming Friday.