Drone strikes claim 43 civilian lives in Ethiopia’s Amhara region

At least 43 civilians were killed in the latest wave of drone strikes in Ethiopia’s restive Amhara region, according to eyewitness reports.

On Wednesday, residents told APA news agency that the strikes targeted Achefer South in the Gojam area.

Additional drone assaults reportedly occurred in North Shoah, specifically around Debre Berhan, compounding the region’s ongoing violence.

On Monday, government forces launched a drone strike in Basosa, approximately 22 kilometers from Debre Berhan. The attack took place around 3 p.m. local time, according to witnesses.

In the nearby Angolala area, Sholamba Primary School was reportedly struck, with Fano commander Abdela Indris confirming that a civilian near the school was killed during the incident.

The Ethiopian National Defense Forces have not issued any statements concerning the incidents around Debre Berhan.

However, the military has reiterated claims of significant victories against what it describes as “extremist” forces—a reference to the Fano militia group.

While the military asserts that Fano forces are “retreating and dispersing,” the increasing frequency of drone strikes in areas like Gojam and Shoa suggests a more complex reality on the ground.

Reports also indicate ongoing battles between Fano fighters and government troops across multiple parts of Amhara.

Eyewitnesses have described intense clashes near Finote Selam and in both southern and northern Wollo regions, highlighting the volatile situation and deepening humanitarian concerns.