Drone Attack in Ethiopia North Shewa Zone of Amhara Region Results in Casualties at School

Addis Ababa: A drone attack in the North Shewa Zone, Amhara Regional State of Ethiopia has resulted in the death of four individuals and injuries to five others, including teachers. The incident occurred on Sunday, May 12, 2024, at the Gulo Elementary School in Kewot Woreda, North Shewa Zone, Amhara Region, during a meeting organized by the Parents Teachers Association (PTA). Eyewitnesses and affected families reported the incident to the BBC.

The drone strike took place around 7:30 AM, targeting the Gulo Elementary School, located approximately 20 kilometers from the woreda’s main town, Shewa Robit. The attack left four people dead and five others injured.

A participant of the meeting, who witnessed the attack, stated that the drone strike happened during a PTA meeting attended by teachers and community members. The eyewitness reported that the explosion caused severe head injuries to the victims.

“We thought it was an airplane at first, but it circled a few times before dropping the bomb,” said the eyewitness, describing the confusion and shock among the attendees. “We didn’t know where it came from until it hit us directly.”

Among the deceased, two were participants in the meeting, while the other two were peaceful individuals around the school premises. “Two of the victims were with us, participating in the meeting. The other two were nearby farmers sitting outside the school fence when the attack happened,” explained the eyewitness.

Another participant, who lost a close family member in the attack, described the chaotic scene. “He stood up suddenly, and the blast threw him to the ground. It was a brutal attack,” the family member told the BBC.

The victim, a 30-year-old farmer and father of one, was reportedly working in agriculture. The family mentioned that he had come to the school to use the nearby water source when the attack occurred. “It was heartbreaking,” said the family member. “His child is very young and unaware of the situation.”

The funeral for the victims was held on the same day at 10 AM at the St. Gabriel Church.

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing violence and its impact on civilians, especially in educational settings where safety is paramount.

This news was first reported by BBC Amharic