Gunmen Target Ethiopian Orthodox Pilgrims Returning from an Annual Feast

Kulubi Saint Gabriel Church

Pictures Credit: Kune Demelash Kassaye

ESG – OCP News Service – 01/01/2024

Addis Ababa- Ethiopia: On December 29, 2023, an incident occurred where gunmen targeted Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church pilgrims as they were returning from the annual feast of the Archangel Saint Gabriel observed at Kulubi, a renowned pilgrimage site located in East Hararghe Zone of Oromia Regional State. The ambush took place outside the town of Metehara, specifically at Lege Benti in East Shewa Zone.

According to a report by Mahibere Kidusan Television on Sunday, December 31, 2023, one pilgrim tragically lost his life in the attack that occurred around 11:00PM, while four others sustained injuries. The pilgrims were said to be from Arba Minch, in Southern Ethiopia. Witnesses revealed that other buses, carrying Orthodox passengers, were forced to seek refuge at St. Michael’s Church in Metehara town until the security situation was calmer. These witnesses also shared accounts of similar attacks that had occurred three days prior in the same area, targeting civilians who had left the town for work.

Source:
Mahibere Kidusan Broadcast Service https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssNwvylWkVA