Security forces detain hundreds protesting home demolition

Security forces have detained over 200 people in the capital Addis Ababa after thousands of homes, deemed illegal by the government, were demolished.

Six people, including two police officers, were killed in the confrontation last week and authorities are carrying out mass arrests in connection with the killings of the officers. The residents said the regime was indiscriminately arresting citizens who had nothing to do with the killing of the officers. Reports also said over 40 police officers, who sustained injuries in clashes with residents, have been admitted to the hospital.

Some residents told local media that not only their houses were torn down but security forces have beaten and harassed them.

Of the over 30,000 houses built in the area, authorities plan to demolish most of them that were deemed illegal. There are also plans by the city administration to carry out further demolition of houses in other areas of the capital.