Warring tribes attacked a Catholic church in Ethiopia, looting the parish compound and leaving extensive damage in what church leaders described as a devastating assault. Clashes between the Anyuak and Nuer tribes led to the attack, when armed members of the Nuer tribe occupied the presbytery and surrounding church grounds at dawn. Large groups later arrived with more than 20 dump trucks and heavy weapons, robbing residents at gunpoint and breaking into homes.
Father David Kulandai Samy said looters took Mass kits, altar clothes, electrical goods, school supplies, food for children, and his personal belongings, including identity cards. A statue of Jesus was stolen and a new crib was destroyed. He reported that the attackers left “not even a teaspoon” behind.
When he returned in January, Father Samy found bullet holes in the walls and severe roof damage. He said some of those who looted were members of his own congregation. Aid to the Church in Need confirmed that at least two other parishes were also attacked amid escalating ethnic violence.
