Intense fighting between government forces and Fano militants has been reported in the town of Gondar and surrounding areas.

A fresh wave of fighting erupted last week in Debark, the seat of the northern Gondar zone, as well as in Dabat and Amba Giorgis. Although the situation had been relatively calm until today, gunfire was reported in several parts of Gondar town on Tuesday.

BBC Amharic, citing a resident of Debark, reported that the town faced heavy shelling on Monday, leaving “many civilians injured in the fighting.” A medical staff member described the town as enduring a constant barrage of gunfire throughout the day. Over 20 people were injured and admitted to the hospital on Monday. He also noted that additional injured individuals were being transported to the hospital on Tuesday, where two of them died upon arrival. The medical staff reported that many of the injured did not make it to the hospital and died before they could receive treatment.

The victims of Monday’s shooting were laid to rest at various churches today. A witness at St. Michael’s Church in Debark reported that “about 15 people were buried there this morning.”

The towns of Dabat and Amba Giorgis have also been subjected to intense gunfire since Monday, according to reports. The violence resulted in civilian casualties in Dabat, prompting many residents to flee the town and seek refuge in rural areas.

At least three civilians were killed in Monday’s clashes between militants and security forces, according to a witness in Dabat. The violence has left people on edge, though the witness couldn’t specify which side caused the civilian casualties.

While fighting between government forces and Fano militants has been going on around Gondar, the town has been mostly calm recently. However, the conflict spread to the suburbs of Gondar early Tuesday morning. Residents told the BBC that gunfire had been heard at the town’s entry and exit points. Reports indicate heavy shelling in areas such as Azezo, Kebele 18, Addis Alem, Aira, and Alem Ber, which has completely halted normal business activities in these areas.

A heavy presence of government soldiers was reported in the area, with gunfire audible in the central part of Gondar. By midday, the intensity of the fighting had subsided.