On September 20, 2026, 315 former Tigray militia members, affiliated with the outlawed TPLF, surrendered to the Ethiopian Defense Forces (EDF) in the Northwest region. The individuals stated that they had decided to lay down their arms and seek rehabilitation. According to sources, the group had been engaged in conflict with the government and had been operating in the region.
The surrendered militia members expressed relief and gratitude towards the EDF for their care and reception. They stated that the treatment they received from the military far exceeded their expectations. The individuals also praised the local community for welcoming them and acknowledging their decision to seek peace. The EDF reportedly provided the former militia members with necessary assistance and support.
Colonel Abay Tadese, Head of Logistics at the Northwest Division, stated that the decision of the militia members to surrender demonstrated their commitment to peace. He further emphasized that the TPLF's destructive plans had been exposed, prompting the individuals to seek an alternative. The Colonel urged other militia members to follow suit and abandon their arms.
The surrendered militia members appealed to their former colleagues, who are still engaged in conflict, to consider seeking peace. They emphasized that they had made the right decision in laying down their arms and urged others to do the same. The individuals acknowledged that they had been misled by TPLF leaders and were now willing to reintegrate into society.
According to sources, the EDF has been working to rehabilitate and reintegrate the former militia members into society. The military has been providing them with necessary support, including medical care and vocational training. The rehabilitation program aims to equip the individuals with skills to enable them to lead productive lives.
The Ethiopian government has been working to address the root causes of the conflict in the Tigray region. The government has launched initiatives aimed at promoting peace, stability, and economic development in the region. The surrender of the militia members is seen as a positive step towards achieving these goals.
The incident highlights the ongoing efforts of the Ethiopian government and the EDF to promote peace and stability in the region. The government has reiterated its commitment to finding a peaceful solution to the conflict and engaging with stakeholders to achieve lasting peace.
Key points
- Over 300 former Tigray militia members surrender to Ethiopian defense forces.
- Surrendered militia members praise EDF's care and reception.
- Government and EDF efforts aim to promote peace, stability, and development in the Tigray region.
