ONM-ABO September 17, 2025, Cinaaksan, East Hararghe
At least six civilians have been killed and several others wounded following violent clashes between Somali Regional State Special Forces and local Oromo residents in the Cinaaksan district of East Hararghe, according to local sources.
The violence, which erupted yesterday, is the latest in a series of coordinated attacks allegedly orchestrated by the Somali Special Forces with the backing of the federal ruling party, Bilxiginna (Prosperity Party). Residents say the assaults have become increasingly frequent across Eastern Oromia, particularly in West and East Hararghe zones.
Witnesses told Oromia National Media (ONM) that the bodies of six civilians were recovered following the fighting, while at least three others are being treated for serious injuries. Several residents have reportedly been abducted by the Somali forces, and widespread looting has also been reported.
“They came not only to kill, but to take everything we have,” said one resident of Cinaaksan, who asked not to be named. “Our livestock: cattle, goats, sheep, donkeys, everything is being taken. And those who are supposed to protect Oromia are either silent or complicit.”
The attacks come in the wake of a controversial administrative restructuring by the Somali Regional State Prosperity Party Council, which unilaterally created two new zones, 14 districts, and 25 municipalities. Local observers say this move has emboldened Somali forces to push deep into Oromo territory, including through South Borana, Southeast Bale, and East Hararghe, where killings and looting have followed.
Many in Oromia view the current violence as part of a broader strategy to destabilise and fragment the Oromo nation, while federal and regional authorities stand by or actively assist the perpetrators. The absence of any protective response from Oromo Prosperity Party officials has deepened public anger and resentment.
“This is not just intercommunal conflict,” said a local elder. “This is state-engineered aggression targeting Oromo land and lives.”
Calls for international attention and accountability are growing, as Oromo communities continue to face what many describe as ethnic cleansing under the guise of federal restructuring and security operations.
ONM will continue to monitor the situation in Cinaaksan and the broader Hararghe region.
