Whereabouts of five EZEMA members unknownThe Ethiopian Human Rights Council (EHRCO) has called on the federal government to urgently investigate a surge in civilian casualties, sexual violence, and property destruction across the Amhara and South Ethiopia regions, citing a failure to uphold constitutional protections for life and security. “We have reached an understanding that members who have committed no crime must be released following an investigation,” said Mengesha. In a statement issued on February 19, 2026, EHRCO indicated that death, destruction of property, and physical injury have occurred and continue to persist in the South Ethiopia Region. “Attacks in the districts against local residents resulted in the death of an unconfirmed number of people, property destruction, and displacement,” read the statement. EHRCO calls upon the security forces and regional stakeholders in Amhara and South Ethiopia to prioritize the prevention of further human rights violations and ensure that those suspected of such acts are “brought to justice” through formal legal channels.

Source: Ethiopian News February 21, 2026 09:02 UTC