Ethiopia warns of immanent terrorist attacks

November 4, 2008 (ADDIS ABABA) – The Ethiopian authorities warned today of imminent terrorist attack and urged citizens to collaborate with security forces.

The Joint Taskforce of National Intelligence Security Service and the Federal Police said, in a press statement issued today, it has got information that may lead to crack down on a looming plotting to carry out terrorism in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia generally accuses the neighbouring Eritrea along with Oromo and Ogaden rebel movements.

A series of bomb blasts have rocked the Ethiopian capital this year. Four people were killed and other 24 injured last September, when a bomb explosion inside a bar in Addis Ababa; and in May, a bomb went off on a minibus near the foreign ministry, killing six people, including a US national.

Yesterday Ethiopian authorities also arrested Bekele Jirata, secretary general of the opposition Oromo Federalist Democratic Movement (OFDM), in Addis Ababa accusing him for working with the rebel Oromo Liberation Front (OLF).

The OLF has been fighting for independence for the southern Oromo region, Addis Ababa used to accuse Asmara of backing the rebel group with training and financial support.

In its public warning, the taskforce said public should cooperate with the security forces for frisking and monitoring for the sake of common safety.

(ST)