In the ongoing series of confrontations arising from the demolition of mosques in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, the police resorted to using teargas against worshippers outside the city’s largest mosque on Friday.
The destruction of numerous Muslim places of worship in Addis Ababa has been linked to a contentious urban planning initiative, provoking strong resentment among worshippers.
According to the police, violent confrontations occurred outside the Grand Anwar Mosque last Friday, resulting in the unfortunate death of two individuals and numerous injuries. The police further stated that they had taken 114 individuals into custody in relation to the incident.
In anticipation of this week’s Friday prayers, law enforcement officers dressed in riot gear were stationed outside the mosque. Additionally, members of the Republican Guard, an esteemed unit responsible for safeguarding government institutions and officials, were also present.
As worshippers were peacefully departing from the mosque, a group of young individuals suddenly began shouting “Allahu Akbar” (God is greatest), causing a wave of panic when gunshots were heard. Some members of the crowd retaliated by throwing stones at the police, who responded by employing tear gas.
It was unclear whether the police used live ammunition, plastic projectiles or blank shots.
Shots continued to be heard for about two hours before calm returned and police cordoned off roads around the mosque.
Amir, a young worshipper who was at the mosque for Friday prayers said, “We more or less knew what was going to happen after prayers.”
“Hundreds of our brothers and sisters were arrested last week… people are furious our mosques are being destroyed.”
The urban planning project, known as Sheger City, involves the fusion of several municipalities in the Oromia region on the outskirts of the capital.
It has led to the demolition of homes and businesses, and local rights activists have slammed it as “illegal.”
