Intense clashes between government forces and Fano militants erupted in Woldia, North Wollo Zone, on Sunday evening, with residents reporting hours of heavy gunfire.

The clash, which began around 8:30 p.m. on Sunday in parts of Woldia, lasted for hours, according to residents quoted by BBC Amharic.

Residents said calm had mostly been restored by Monday morning, with the military back in control of the town, although sporadic gunfire could still be heard.

There are no reports of injuries or property damage at this time. The Fano militant group, active in the area, reportedly attacked military bases.

Residents reported “heavy fighting” in two areas of the town, primarily in Gondar Ber and the Mechare (Woldia Stadium) area, stating that camps used by military units were located nearby.

On Sunday afternoon, the military unit fired heavy artillery at the mountainous areas surrounding Woldia; however, by evening, Fano forces had infiltrated the town, according to a BBC report.

Abebe Fentaw, a spokesperson for the local Amhara Fano group, confirmed to the BBC that fighting took place, stating that the militants attacked “military positions” in the town and departed during the night.