APA-Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) An unspecified number of Chinese nationals have been kidnapped in Fiche town in Ethiopia’s Oromia region.
The kidnappers are described as members of the rebel Oromo Liberation Army (OLA).
Members of the armed group abducted the Chinese nationals after they infiltrated the premises of the East Cement Factory earlier this week, residents of the town told APA on condition of anonymity.
According to the residents, the rebel group attempted to advance and control the zonal capital, Fiche town, though government security forces were able to thwart the attempt after “fierce and lengthy fighting.”
Members of the OLA seized the cement factory and abducted Chinese workers early Thursday morning, the residents have confirmed to APA.
“Then, long and steady fighting between the rebel group and government forces continued until 2PM (local time),” the residents added.
The fighting claimed when the rebel forces started to retreat back to their hiding places after lengthy fighting.
Nevertheless, the rebel group took several Chinese nationals hostage as the government forces were unable to rescue them, according to the residents.
East Cement, founded by Chinese investors in 2006, is not the sole focus of armed groups.
In January 2023, 20 employees from the Dangote Cement Factory abducted by unidentified gunmen were released after paying a ransom ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 birr each.
MG/as/APA