The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has expressed concerns regarding the illegal detention of individuals in the Amhara region starting from mid-September 2024. The EHRC reports that numerous arrests have been made without judicial orders, constituting a breach of human rights. They have stressed that all detentions must comply with legal standards and the principles of human rights.

On October 6, 2024, the EHRC released a statement emphasizing that the arrests in Gondar and Bahir Dar, within the Amhara region, were not conducted lawfully, as suspects have been detained without being presented in court. The commission observed that the individuals arrested encompass government officials, political party affiliates, media workers, and civic society members.

The Acting Chief Commissioner of the EHRC, Rakeb Mesele, highlighted the necessity of a legitimate legal foundation for the arrest of civilians, even during periods of conflict or when facing security challenges. He underlined that arrests must be conducted with an order issued by a court, under certain conditions, and that suspects are to be presented to a judge within a 48-hour timeframe.

Rakeb has issued a warning against the targeting of civilians and civilian institutions, urging all involved parties to refrain from disrupting the daily lives of residents. The EHRC has demanded an immediate cessation of arrests that are not in accordance with human rights standards and legal procedures.