Ethiopian army forces have significantly increased their presence in Amhara state over the past fortnight, according to a security source.
This region has been embroiled in a year-long insurgency, primarily involving the Fano militia, which advocates for the Amhara ethnic group.
The Fano militia began its armed resistance against the federal government in April 2023 after authorities attempted to disarm regional forces.
In response, the government declared a state of emergency in Amhara, home to approximately 23 million people, in August 2023.
Although the state of emergency expired in June, unrest has persisted.
The security source revealed that the federal army has made numerous reinforcements and arrested officials suspected of colluding with the Fano militia.
On Tuesday, Amnesty International reported mass arbitrary detentions in Amhara, with authorities reportedly arriving with lists of hundreds of individuals to arrest.
Amnesty’s regional director condemned the government’s actions, citing a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
Violence escalated on September 17 in Debark, resulting in at least nine deaths, primarily civilians.
The Fano, a decentralized militia, has increased attacks on federal forces, briefly seizing control of several towns.
Many Amharans, who previously fought alongside the government in the Tigray conflict, feel betrayed by unfulfilled territorial claims.
