2 killed in explosion in Ethiopia's Amhara region

By Andrew Wasike

NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) - An explosion in the Amhara region of Ethiopia killed at least two people, according to media reports, as protests against the integration of local security forces into the national police and army continue to escalate.

Security forces told reporters the two deaths occurred as more than a dozen people were watching a football match at a bar in the Bahir Dar region. At least 10 others who were injured were rushed to the hospital.

It is not yet clear whether the explosion is linked to ongoing protests in the Amhara region.

The explosion comes as another attack Sunday killed two people working with Catholic Relief Services (CRS).

CRS said it was devastated by the deaths of security manager Chuol Tongyik and driver Amare Kindeya who were shot and killed while traveling from Addis Ababa after arriving in the Amhara region.

The killings have added to growing concerns about the safety of aid workers in the region.

The region has seen several days of protests against the government's move to dissolve the Fano paramilitary force which is accused of carrying out human rights abuses.

The Fano was established to protect the ethnic Amhara community but has been accused of targeting members of other ethnic groups.

The protests have led to concerns about the safety of healthcare workers and facilities, with the International Committee of the Red Cross urging all parties to respect and protect healthcare workers and facilities at all times.

It is unclear at this time whether the explosion will lead to further violence or if the government will take action to address the concerns of protesters and the international community.

For the fifth day in a row, massive demonstrations have been staged in the region.