Echoes of Conflict: Addis Ababa Alarms as Explosions Follow Drone Ban
Addis Ababa was rattled by a series of unexplained detonations late Saturday night, coming shortly after the government imposed a ban on drone flights. The blasts were heard most loudly near the military headquarters in the western suburb of Torhayloch and again in the southern neighbourhood of Gotera. Local residents told reporters that the explosions sounded like very heavy artillery and were loud enough to set off car alarms.
An opposition‑linked source claimed that the attacks were the result of drone strikes, while no official confirmation or casualty report has yet been released. The Ethiopian Defence Ministry, the Prime Minister’s office, and city police have not responded to requests for comment. The incident comes a week after fighting erupted between the army and a newly formed alliance of armed groups in the north, including forces from the Tigray region.
Security analysts warn that the ban, aimed at preventing weaponised drones from being used against civilians, could exacerbate the already volatile security situation. Residents remain on edge as authorities probe the source and intent of the midnight blasts. The situation is developing, and further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
