Christian World | Ethiopia's Orthodox Church says two attacks in Oromia's Arsi Zone on Oct. 20 and 24 killed at least 60 worshippers; regional officials blame rebels.

ACW | October 27, 2026 — The Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church says two attacks in the Arsi Zone of Ethiopia's Oromia region have killed at least 60 Orthodox Christians.

The Synod says 14 people were killed on October 20 in Merti district and 46 on October 24 in Shirka district. More than 20 people were seriously wounded and 20 homes were burned down.

The Synod called the killings a violation of the constitutional rights to life and religious freedom. It urged federal and regional authorities to condemn them publicly, protect civilians and arrest the perpetrators. Borkena reported that a memorial service was held on October 26 at the Patriarchal Seat and that churches worldwide were asked to hold memorial prayers on October 27.

Hailu Adugna, spokesperson for the Oromia regional government, told The Associated Press that authorities blame the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) and its allies and have begun action against those responsible. AP reported that he offered no evidence. The OLA could not be reached for comment; its leader told AP in February that his fighters do not target civilians. Al Jazeera reported that no group has claimed responsibility.

Vatican News, citing reports, described the toll as provisional and said elderly people and children were among the victims.

Background: The Ethiopian Human Rights Council reported in July that at least 432 civilians and four local militia members were killed in targeted attacks in East Arsi between 2021–22 and June 1, 2026, Al Jazeera reported.

Why it matters: The Synod says the attacks violate the rights to life and religious freedom guaranteed by Ethiopia's constitution, and it has scheduled a meeting with senior government officials to set long-term security measures for Christian communities, Borkena reported.

ACW will continue to follow this story.

Sources: Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church (via Borkena) — statement on the Arsi massacres; The Associated Press — attacks kill at least 60 Orthodox Christians; Al Jazeera — sixty Christians killed in Oromia; Vatican News — attack on village of Orthodox Christians

Photo: Borkena