Ethiopians killed near Kenyan border

NAIROBI, Kenya - At least four Ethiopians were killed near the common border with Kenya, following the resurgence of insecurity incidents within the region, in what could yet again draw serious concerns within the two countries.

Three others were wounded in the confrontation in Kukruk Kebele, Dasenech District, South Omo Zone, along the Ethiopia-Kenya border, in what residents and local officials described as an attack by “armed militants from Kenya’s Turkana County”.

One of the affected individuals who spoke to Addis Standard on anonymity said 11 young Ethiopians fromDasenech District had gone to Kukruk for reconnaissance when they encountered the armed group.

“There were 11 youths from our area. The other side outnumbered them, and when the fighting began, they opened fire, killing four of our people,” he said, adding that one elder from Turkana was also killed.

Mesay Leben, the chief government representative of Dasenech District, confirmed the casualties and said three wounded individuals were receiving treatment at Omorate Health Center, Addis Standard reports.

According to him, over the weekend, armed individuals from Turkana launched another attack in Goro Kebele where they reportedly attempted to steal cattle from the Ethiopians.

“The local community resisted, fought back, and managed to recover the livestock,” he said, adding that one Turkana individual was killed in the confrontation.

This comes amid ongoing violence in Dasenech District, South Omo Zone, along the Ethiopia-Kenya border. Addis Standard previously reported that on February 23, 2025, at least 13 people were killed and two others seriously wounded in attacks in Siyes and Sirmeret Kebeles, which residents attributed to “armed militants from Kenya’s Turkana County.”

Residents said attackers stole six boats, 130 finishing nets, and 500,000 dried fish. The violence had also displaced thousands of people from the area. The Ethiopians also accused Kenyan security forces of backing the armed groups, a claim which cannot be substantiated.

GAROWE ONLINE