A heavily armed and well-trained group, identified as the Amhara insurgents operating under the name “Fano,” has surrounded the town of Angar Gute in the East Walaga zone of Oromia, posing a significant risk of further attacks. The deteriorating situation has led local residents to protest, demanding a halt to the insurgent forces’ movements. However, government authorities have indicated that they have not received orders to confront these forces.
A few months ago, the Fano group launched a series of attacks in Angar Gute and its surrounding areas, resulting in hundreds of casualties, including members of the Oromia Special Forces. In response, an unprecedented alliance formed between the Oromo Liberation Army and regional security forces to suppress the group’s activities in the region. These efforts enabled displaced residents from Naqamte town and other locations to return to their homes in Angar Gute. However, residents have reported a recent deterioration in the area’s security situation.
A local resident of Angar Gute town informed us via phone that the Fano group has regrouped and is now operating in the region, supported by heavy weaponry. The group has been responsible for at least five fatalities in recent incidents alone.
Community elders, who spoke to us by phone, painted a grim picture of the area’s conditions, with blocked roads, civilian hardship, and daily casualties. Angar Gute residents and those in surrounding areas have repeatedly urged government authorities to intervene and curb the actions of the Fano militia group.
Amid the ongoing violence, inhabitants of Angar Gute town staged demonstrations, appealing to local government authorities. However, an attempt by security forces stationed in the town to confront the militia was halted by orders from higher-ups.
Attempts to contact Angar Gute Security Affairs Chief Desu Gammachu for comment were unsuccessful. The developing crisis in Angar Gute demands the close attention of the international community, as the region’s security and stability are at stake.
