Religious tensions in Ethiopia have been heightened following deadly clashes in Gondar during the funeral of a Muslim elder four days ago. Religious leaders are calling for the arrest and prosecution of attackers before that violence escalates out of control.

Religious institutions have been deliberately damaged and destroyed in other regions in the series of protests following the killings of more than 20 Muslim people in an attack in Gondar. Haji Osman Omar, head of the Islamic Affairs Council of Amhara said that two mosques had been set on fire in Debark, 100km north of Gonder and that at least two people died in the violent protest.

On the other hand, two churches were destroyed in Worabe, the capital of the Silte zone, Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s (SNNP) regional state, the Hadiya and Silte Zone Diocese Secretariat announced. In addition to the destruction, people were beaten and seriously hurt, it was said. The Secretariat, Niguse Baweke, said that another monastery, the monastery of Finote Leza St. Mary in Berbere Woreda of East Azernet been set on fire. ” After Ṣalāt (prayer),  the Muslims marched to St. Raphael’s Church, chanting slogans, they dismantled the altar and torched it and also other sacred articles and Scriptures,” the Secretariat said. The church was turned to ash,” he said.

The Secretariat also said that Sankura St. Gabriel’s Church was engulfed by flames after being attacked by “extremist forces”.

What happened in Debark?

Haji Osman Omar, head of the Islamic Affairs Council of Amhara said at least two people were killed and two mosques were set on fire in Debark town. Haj Osman said the damage was wrought after rumours spread through the town that Muslims set fire to the local church. The rumours were fake, but a mob burned two men to death and torched two mosques before anyone checked.

Witnesses reported that a protest supported by local villagers developed after a fire broke out at the Gotit church in Debark, but calm has been restored rapidly.

In a statement issued Thursday, Ethiopia’s Federal Intelligence and Security Task Force announced that it has arrested 280 suspects in connection with the incident that happened in Gondar.

The Taskforce said the arrests are part of a crackdown on some elements who are working to stir up violence and disturbance under the guise of ‘religion’.