The Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church says more than 60 of its faithful were killed in two separate attacks in Oromia region.
In a statement released on Monday by its Holy Synod, the Church said the victims were all Orthodox Christians targeted in Arsi Zone.
According to the statement, 14 people were killed on October 20 in Merti Woreda, while 46 others were killed on October 24 in Shirka Woreda.
The Synod also disclosed that over 20 people sustained severe injuries and are currently in hospital, while more than 20 houses were burnt during the attacks.
The Church condemned the killings as inhumane and a violation of the right to life and freedom of religion, calling on the federal and regional governments to ensure justice and protection for citizens.
It added that the attacks have heightened concerns over the safety of Christians in parts of Oromia, where similar incidents have been reported in the past.
Meanwhile, the Oromia regional government and sources linked to rebel groups have traded blame over the incident. The Oromo Liberation Army, which has been accused in previous attacks, is yet to respond to the latest allegations.
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