As outlined in the report, persistent administrative disputes spanning the preceding six months emerged between the residents of Kola Shara Kebele and officials representing the adjacent Arba Minch city administration. The report denotes that inhabitants of Kola Shara Kebele established a local militia and enlisted both youth and elders to uphold tranquility and manage administrative responsibilities within the kebele. Simultaneously, leaders in administrative and security roles within the region conveyed to the commission that these informal local groups obstructed officials appointed by the Arba Minch city administration from accessing Kola Shara Kebele. On 24 August, 2023, law enforcement and security personnel from the region entered Kola Shara Kebele during heightened tensions associated with administrative matters. As an integral component of its investigation, the commission conducted interviews with victims, eyewitnesses, local leaders, and security officials directly implicated in the incident.

Source: Ethiopian News January 19, 2024 10:27 UTC