Ethiopia’s military chief of staff attacked: Abiy Ahmed

• US reports of gunfire in Addis Ababa

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has said that the military’s Chief of Staff, General Seare Mekonen has been physically attacked, although he did not provide clarifications.

In a televised speech delivered after midnight wearing a military uniform, Prime Minister Abiy said there have been fatalities and injuries in Bahir Dar’s attempted coup on the same day.

Abiy said that the attack on Seare was connected to the coup attempt in Bahir Dar. “While he was coordinating and leading response to the coup with the strong sense of mission, people in his close entourage and bought by hired elements have attacked the beloved and respected chief of General Staff,” he said.

The individuals who carried out the attack have been arrested, Abiy said.

In related news, the US Embassy in Ethiopia reported gunfire in Addis Ababa on Saturday evening. In a travel alert, the US State Department said that Chief of Mission personnel had taken shelter in place. «Employ sound security practices, remain aware of your surroundings, including local events, avoid large gatherings and demonstrations; monitor local news stations; and follow the instructions of local authorities,” it wrote on Twitter.

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