The Tibebe Ghion Specialized Hospital of the Bahir Dar University has been compelled to halt its operations due to the ongoing conflict in the region, BBC Amharic reported. The BBC, citing both hospital staff and the university president, reported that the hospital has ceased its regular operations.

Dr. Frew Tesfaye, the President of the University of Bahir Dar, acknowledged that the hospital is no longer accepting patients but he refrained from offering further information, saying he was not present at the site.

 One hospital worker told the media outlet that the fire was opened on security forces who were operating in the area, leading them to enter the hospital in response. “It seems they assumed that the gunfire originated from the direction of the hospital. Subsequently, the soldiers took positions on the building’s roof.” Upon witnessing this situation, the medical personnel became alarmed and started to leave, leading to the hospital ceasing to accept patients, the health worker told the media outlet.

A teacher at the university, who did not want to disclose his identity, confirmed that the hospital had stopped working, saying: “There was active fighting in the vicinity of the hospital and the medical personnel were unable to deliver services in a stable manner.”

Even prior to the onset of the conflict, the hospital was said to be grappling with insufficient medical resources. Over the past month, it has faced the daunting task of attending to a large influx of injured individuals. Security forces were entering the hospital and detaining patients, accusing them of being affiliated with Fano, according to multiple sources. Fearing for their safety due to the unstable security situation and the unsuitability of the conditions for work, the medical staff chose to leave, the BBC reported.

Recently, there was a confrontation between Fano militants and security forces in close proximity to the hospital, according to the BBC Amharic. According to witnesses cited by the outlet, the government forces apprehended certain staff members from the hospital whom they suspected of having ties to Fano. One health worker was shot and is currently receiving treatment at a clinic.”

Tibebe Ghion stands as one of the key specialized hospitals in Bahir Dar, operating alongside Felege Hiwot comprehensive specialized hospital. Together, they reportedly cater to over 5 million people, boasting a capacity of more than 500 beds each.