ESAT News (August 7, 2016)
Residents of Bahir Dar who spoke to ESAT said at least twenty people were killed and dozens injured as security forces opened fired on protesters. ESAT is working to verify the number of casualties in Sunday’s protest demonstration in Bahir Dar.
Felege Hiwot, Gambi and other hospitals in Bahir Dar were flooded with people with gunshot wounds to the head and torso. The forces used heavy artillery to shoot at protesters, according to residents.
Telephone and internet services were cut by the regime in Bahir Dar and Gondar.
The peaceful protesters were met with Agazi forces who shot directly at the crowds. Residents say the Agazi forces do not speak their languages; while some are Tigrayan security forces and vigilante Tigrayans in military uniforms shooting at protesters. Residents said they saw tanks coming towards Bahir Dar from across the Abay River.
Protesters burnt down properties and businesses belonging to the ruling party. Official flags of the government were replaced by the original Ethiopian flag while photos and effigies of government officials, including the late dictator Meles Zenawi were set ablaze.
In Soreka and Dansha standoff continued between armed farmers and regime soldiers.
Anti-government protest also spread to Meteman, Shinfa Shedi and Quara.
In the capital Addis Ababa, entrance to the city was blocked at Sululta where security forces attacked protesters trying to enter the capital. Sever youth were rounded up and detained in some parts of the city, according to residents who spoke to ESAT.
[More updates will follow]