Two more Sudanese refugees killed in fresh attack in Ethiopia

July 21, 2024 (ADDIS ABABA) – Two Sudanese refugees were killed in a fresh attack on the Awlala camp in Ethiopia’s Amhara region, marking the second armed incident in less than a week.

More than 6,000 Sudanese refugees, including over 2,300 women and children, are in dire conditions within the Amhara region’s Awlala forests. They face significant threats, including attacks from armed Ethiopian groups and the approaching rainy season with inadequate shelter.

Camp sources reported that the attack resulted in two fatalities and roughly nine injuries among refugees. The motives behind this latest attack remain unclear, following a similar incident three days prior that left several refugees, including a child, injured and two Ethiopian policemen dead.

The Sudanese Refugee Coordination Office in the Amhara region issued a press statement condemning the attack and confirming casualties. They also criticized alleged threats from UNHCR officials directed at refugees who refused relocation to a new camp.

Khalid Omer, a prominent member of the Tagadum civil society alliance, stated on Saturday that Al-Hadi Idris, the coalition deputy chairman, and the head of their refugee committee is in ongoing talks with Ethiopian officials regarding the situation of Sudanese refugees.

Sources familiar with the refugee crisis revealed to Sudan Tribune that Ethiopian authorities offered to relocate Sudanese refugees to a different, secured location within the Amhara region. However, the refugees have reportedly rejected this proposal.

There’s growing resentment among refugees towards the perceived neglect by the Sudanese embassy in Addis Ababa. Refugees criticize the absence of the newly appointed ambassador and a lack of follow-up on their conditions or assistance in the wake of the attacks.

Following the initial attack, refugees reported a complete lack of response from the Sudanese embassy in Addis Ababa. This discontent has intensified with the continued violence and kidnappings by Ethiopian militias.