The Oromo Liberation Army (OLA), also known as WBO in Oromoo, released a statement claiming responsibility for multiple attacks against the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) in recent days, and said the attacks inflicted over 200 casualties. The OLA is an insurgent group that advocates for the rights and autonomy of the Oromo people in Ethiopia.
According to the OLA, on March 4, 2025, its Central Command launched an assault in Qarree Tokkittii, Yaayyaa Gullallee District, North Shewa Zone, resulting in the deaths of 31 soldiers, including six commanding officers, and wounding 35 others. The group said six ENDF soldiers were captured as prisoners of war.
Also on March 4, the OLA claimed its Harsadee Command executed a strike in Laaftoo Rifeensoo, Shanan Kooluu District, East Arsi Zone, killing nine soldiers and wounding seven others.
On March 3, the group reported that its Western Command ambushed ENDF forces stationed in Jimmiituu, Galiilaa District, East Wollega Zone. The OLA said the attack destroyed four military vehicles along with all soldiers on board.
On February 28, the OLA claimed its Central Command conducted an offensive in Qurqurraa, Dagam District, North Shewa Zone, resulting in the deaths of 65 soldiers and wounding over 100 others. The group said it recovered a cache of weapons from the ENDF, and that communication remains cut off in the area.
On February 27, the OLA said its Central Command executed a strike against ENDF forces in Calalaqaa, Sululta District, North Shewa Zone, killing nine soldiers and wounding seven.
The OLA reported three simultaneous operations carried out by its Harsadee Command on February 26 in Adaamaa District, East Shewa Zone. In Qalboo, the OLA said a direct assault on a military camp resulted in the deaths of nine soldiers and left seven wounded. Another strike in Dalga Gaalaa Jiddaa eliminated ten soldiers and wounded four, according to the group. In Adulaalaa Town, the OLA said it eliminated 15 soldiers and wounded 13 others. The group reported these three coordinated attacks dislodged ENDF forces from their positions, securing the area.
OLA insurgency part of broader violence in Ethiopia
The escalating violence in Oromia is part of a broader pattern of unrest that has plagued Ethiopia in recent years. The Prosperity Party-led government, under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, has faced growing resistance from various ethnic and political groups, with Oromia emerging as one of the most volatile regions.
The government has labeled the Oromo Liberation Army a terrorist organization, accusing it of destabilizing the country and targeting civilians. The group, on the other hand, denies these allegations, positioning itself as the protector of Oromo interests and accusing the government of systemic marginalization and repression.
Humanitarian organizations have expressed deep concern over the escalating conflict, which has displaced thousands of residents across Oromia. Civilians caught in the crossfire face mounting challenges, including restricted access to essential services, shortages of food and medical supplies, and ongoing threats to their safety. Efforts to deliver aid to affected areas have been hampered by security concerns and limited access.
