Armed Assailants Burned an Orthodox Church in Boset, Oromia, Ethiopia

ESG – OCP News Service – 28/01/2024

Addis Ababa- Ethiopia: Unknown armed assailants set fire to Merko Mekane Hiwot Abune Gebre Menfes Qedus Church in Boset district of East Shewa Diocese in Oromia, Ethiopia. This devastating act of arson, which occurred on the evening of Friday, January 27, 2024 has left the local Orthodox community shocked and dismayed.

The fire destroyed all holy objects, and scorched both – inner and outer walls of the church. It was reported that the attackers had made several threats prior to the incident.

In response to what occured, the diocese launched an investigation into the attack and released a statement expressing its deep concern and sadness, emphasizing that this act was a blow to the believing members of the community.

The arson was not the first time that Boset district had experienced such heinous attacks. In July 2023, hand grenades were thrown at Doni Abune Gebre Menfes Qedus Church, and in 2022, five other churches (Rufa Abune Tekle Haymanot, Chele Abune Gebre Menfes Qedus, Dege Mariam, Kurkura Baleweld – God the Son, and Dengore Medhanealem – Holy Savior) were burned. In some cases, the faithful and clergy were kidnapped, killed, or forced to flee the area.

The incidents in Boset district have become a cause for concern within East Shewa Diocese. The diocese urged authorities to take the necessary measures to safeguard the faithful in the locality and prevent further acts of violence.

Sources:
-ሐመረ ተዋሕዶ ሚዲያ /Hamere Tewahedo Media (Media of East Shewa Diocese)
– Mahibere Kidusan Brodcast Service
-Tewahedo Media Center – TMC