The community of Dara district, located in the North Shewa Zone of the Oromia region, has been the target of a violent attack that resulted in the tragic loss of 18 lives and injuries to six others. According to local residents, the attacks were carried out by “Fano militants” over a two-day period starting on December 24, 2023.
Residents reported that the militants, suspected to have come from neighboring areas, initiated a series of attacks in the district. The violence began on the afternoon of December 24 and continued until the following evening. It was revealed that the militants had established a military encampment in a village within the district for approximately one month before the attacks occurred.
The assaults resulted in the loss of 11 lives in one village and seven in another, with six additional individuals sustaining severe injuries. These injured individuals are currently receiving medical attention at Dara Hospital in Gundo Meskel, the district’s administrative center. The casualties of the assault included two women, and an estimated 50 cattle were confiscated during the occurrence.
In addition to the tragic loss of lives and injuries, the ongoing security difficulties have also impacted educational operations in the district. As a result, educational facilities throughout the district have ceased operations. Furthermore, the militants have established their presence in 10 of the district’s 41 villages, leading to the shutdown of all schools except the district administration center.
Efforts to obtain a response from officials of Dara district did not yield a result. The situation remains dire for the community of Dara district, as they grapple with the aftermath of the violent attacks. The need for security and stability in the region is essential to prevent further loss of life and ensure the safety and well-being of the residents.