Heavy fighting between the federal army and the Fano armed group in the Menz area of the Amhara Region has reportedly resulted in civilian deaths and injuries, according to sources cited by Deutsche Welle Amharic. The clashes were reported in Mehal Meda, Zemero, and Molale, with fighting said to have begun early yesterday morning.

A witness in Mehal Meda town told the radio that at least two civilians were killed by stray bullets during the clashes, including a ninth-grade student and another resident. Deaths were also reported in Zemero and Molale, although the exact number of casualties in those areas remains unclear.

Several houses were also reportedly damaged or destroyed during the fighting, adding to the impact of the clashes on civilians and local communities. Residents said the destruction of homes has left some families displaced and heightened concerns about their safety and livelihoods.

The conflict in the Amhara region, which began in mid-2023 has continued, with civilians repeatedly caught in the fighting. The latest confrontation comes amid the formation in September of a new alliance of armed groups that includes the TPLF and certain faction of the Fano.