Explosions were heard overnight in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, with residents reporting loud blasts near the military headquarters in the west and another in the south of the city.
These incidents followed the government's ban on drone flights over Addis Ababa, an order that came hours after the city began sounding alarms and alerting residents to potential threats.
Experts say the ban was issued in response to escalating fighting between the Ethiopian army and a new guerrilla coalition that includes forces from the Tigray region, which has reignited violence in the north.
A resident in the Gotera neighbourhood said he heard the sound of the explosion around 00:30 local time, describing it as “very loud” and powerful enough to trigger car alarms. Another witness from the western suburb of Torhayloch, close to the Royal Guard compound, reported hearing a similar blast while playing with friends.
While a source linked to opposition fighters alleged that the blasts were drone strikes, no government body—including the prime minister’s office, the defence ministry or Addis Ababa police—has confirmed the cause or reported any casualties or damage.
The airspace curfew and rising tensions have raised concerns among residents and diplomats, who warn that the situation could quickly deteriorate into open conflict in the capital.
BBC Africa reports that the movements of armed groups in the north have intensified, prompting authorities to tighten security measures in key urban centres.
Citizens can stay informed by following updates from local media and international news outlets, and by staying alert for any developments from the Ethiopian government.
