The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is alarmed by the discovery of a large number of bodies in Chenna Kebele, Dabat Woreda of Gondar on September 07, 2021. Investigation by law enforcement is still ongoing to confirm the numbers and the identities of victims but survivors report that the victims were civilians. The Commission has also learned that civilians who were unable to flee when the town came under control of TPLF/TDF forces stayed behind on the assurance that no harm will come to them if they supply them with food. Residents and local authorities also say that the victims were killed on September 3-4, 2021 by retreating TPLF/TDF forces as the ENDF and regional security forces approached the town.
As part of its on-going human rights investigations in the region, the EHRC will deploy a mission to Dabat Woreda and other affected areas. The Commission reiterates its call to all parties involved to ensure protection of civilians and civilian infrastructures.
