ADDIS ABABA (Halbeeg News) – The United State of America embassy in Ethiopia has issued a security alert following reports of gunfire in Addis Ababa, the country’s capital.
There were reports late on Saturday that there was a coup attempt in the country’s Bahir Dar, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed appearing on Television, saying that the situation has been put under control.
In a brief statement, the US embassy in Ethiopia urged to keep away area engulfed by the crisis.
“The Embassy is aware of reports of gunfire in Addis Ababa. Chief of Mission personnel are advised to shelter in place,” the statement reads in part.
It added that US citizens to “avoid large gatherings and demonstrations; monitor local news stations; and follow the instructions of local authorities.
The development comes hours after gunmen attempted to overthrow Amharic regional state government in Ethiopia.
Appearing live on Ethiopian Television, Nigusu Tilahun, head of the press secretariat at the Prime Minister’s Office, said: “Armed men tried to unseat the Amhara Regional State Government by force but their attempt has been foiled.”
According to the state broadcaster, the armed group claimed itself to be a “force of change”.
In a separate televised speech, the country’s Prime Minister, Abiye Ahmed dressed in military fatigues said the head of Ethiopia’s military was shot but the leader did not clarify the fate of the chief.
PM Abiy also confirmed death of several officials who had been killed in an attack in the Amhara regional capital Bahir Dar.
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