Why Are Ethiopian Authorities Silent on Rising Kidnappings in North Shewa?

The Kidnapping Crisis in North Shewa: A Call for Action Amidst Silence and Suffering

In recent years, the Oromia region of Ethiopia, particularly North Shewa, has experienced a significant increase in kidnappings, which have had a profound impact on families and communities. This situation has led to a decline in trust in governance. These crimes, which often target travellers along key routes such as the Gojjam line, are not random acts of violence but symptoms of deeper systemic failures. These failures range from weak law enforcement and corruption to ethnic tensions and economic marginalisation. Despite the significant human and economic costs, state-controlled media outlets such as ETV and Fana Broadcasting Corporation have remained conspicuously silent on this issue, preferring to focus on less significant stories. This lack of coverage only serves to perpetuate a cycle of impunity, emboldening criminals and leaving citizens feeling unprotected and abandoned.

It is vital to understand the root causes of this crisis, which range from financial greed to political manipulation and resource control if effective solutions are to be crafted. Key steps towards restoring peace and stability include strengthening law enforcement, fostering community engagement, promoting media accountability, and addressing socio-economic inequalities. As Ethiopia confronts this escalating challenge, it is crucial to underscore the human dimension behind the statistics: lives lost, families torn apart, and futures destroyed. The time for decisive action is now because without safety, there can be no prosperity, no unity, and no hope for a better tomorrow.

This article explores the complexities of the kidnapping crisis in North Shewa, examining its causes, implications, and potential pathways to resolution. We invite you to join us in our efforts to shed light on this pressing issue and demand accountability from those entrusted with protecting Ethiopia’s people.

1. The Nature and Scale of Kidnapping in North Shewa

Kidnapping for ransom has emerged as a pervasive and deeply troubling crime in North Shewa, a zone within Ethiopia’s Oromia region, with devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities. This criminal phenomenon is not random or sporadic but appears to be a calculated and systematic operation, often targeting travellers along key transportation routes such as the Gojjam line. The scale and nature of these kidnappings reveal patterns that point to both organisational sophistication and a profound failure of governance and law enforcement.

Targeting Travellers

Criminals have honed in on the vulnerability of travellers, who are often isolated and less able to defend themselves. In rural areas like North Shewa, where roads are poorly maintained and security presence is minimal, buses, and vehicles traversing long distances become prime targets. These attacks frequently occur in remote stretches of road, where victims are far from help and criminals can operate with relative impunity. Passengers, including merchants transporting goods, students returning home, or families visiting relatives, are ambushed, abducted, and held hostage. Such crimes prey on the basic need for mobility, turning travel into a perilous gamble.

For Ethiopians living in North Shewa, the act of travelling—whether for work, education, or family visits—has been transformed into an ordeal fraught with danger. Many now avoid travelling after dark or choose alternative, longer routes to evade potential ambushes. This fear of abduction has effectively restricted movement, stifling economic activity and social interaction, and further isolating already marginalised communities.

High Ransom Demands

The kidnappers’ modus operandi typically involves demanding exorbitant ransoms from the families or relatives of hostages. These demands, which can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of Ethiopian birr, place immense financial strain on households. Families are often forced to sell property, livestock, or other assets to raise the required sums. In some cases, they resort to borrowing money at high-interest rates, plunging them into crippling debt.

The psychological toll is equally severe. Families endure days or weeks of uncertainty, unsure whether their loved ones will be released alive. For those who manage to pay the ransom, the relief is short-lived, as the financial burden leaves lasting scars. Meanwhile, those unable to meet the demands face the harrowing prospect of their relatives being killed—a grim reality that underscores the brutality of these crimes.

Violence and Fatalities

The use of extreme violence is a hallmark of these kidnappings, designed to instil fear and ensure compliance. Victims who resist or whose families fail to meet ransom demands are often subjected to torture or execution. Reports of mutilated bodies being found along roadsides serve as chilling reminders of the stakes involved. Even survivors of such attacks bear physical injuries and deep psychological trauma, while their families grapple with grief and anger over the loss of their loved ones.

These acts of violence have created a climate of terror in North Shewa, where residents live in constant fear of becoming the next victim. The randomness of the attacks—striking without warning and sparing no demographic—has left communities feeling powerless and abandoned by those tasked with protecting them.

Repetition in Specific Areas

One of the most striking aspects of the kidnapping crisis is its geographic concentration. Certain routes, particularly the Gojjam line, have witnessed repeated incidents of abduction, robbery, and murder. This pattern suggests either a deliberate targeting of these areas or a glaring absence of effective security measures. The Gojjam line, a vital artery connecting different parts of Ethiopia, should theoretically be well-patrolled and secured. Yet, it has instead become synonymous with danger, earning a reputation as a “death road” among locals.

The persistence of attacks in specific locations raises questions about why law enforcement has failed to prevent or respond to these crimes. Is it due to logistical challenges, such as limited resources and manpower? Or does it reflect more profound issues, such as corruption or complicity within the security apparatus? Whatever the reason, the inability—or unwillingness—of authorities to secure these critical routes has emboldened criminals and eroded public confidence in the state’s capacity to maintain order.

Failure of Law Enforcement

The prevalence of kidnapping in North Shewa points to a systemic failure of law enforcement agencies to protect citizens and dismantle criminal networks. Despite numerous reports of abductions and killings, there has been little evidence of concerted efforts to apprehend the perpetrators or disrupt their operations. Instead, the lack of accountability allows these crimes to continue unchecked, creating a vicious cycle of impunity.

Victims and their families are left to navigate this nightmare alone, caught between the impossible choice of paying ransoms or risking death. Their desperation is compounded by the knowledge that they cannot rely on the government or police for assistance. In some cases, families have even reported instances of bribery, where corrupt officials demand additional payments before taking any action—a betrayal that further undermines trust in institutions.

Underlying Dynamics

The situation in North Shewa reflects broader challenges facing Ethiopia, including ethnic tensions, economic inequality, and weak governance. While financial gain may be the primary motive for many kidnappers, there are indications that these crimes could also serve political purposes. For example, if certain ethnic groups are disproportionately targeted, it could exacerbate divisions between communities, such as Oromo and Amhara populations. Such dynamics suggest that the kidnappings may not merely be acts of opportunism but part of a larger strategy to destabilise the region.

The kidnapping crisis in North Shewa reveals a disturbing intersection of criminality, governance failure, and societal vulnerability. By targeting travellers, demanding exorbitant ransoms, and perpetrating horrific violence, criminals have turned one of life’s most fundamental activities—movement—into a source of dread. The repetition of these crimes in specific areas highlights both the inadequacy of security measures and the potential for organised networks to operate with near-total impunity.

Until Ethiopian authorities take decisive action to address this crisis, the people of North Shewa will remain trapped in a cycle of fear, suffering, and loss. Restoring safety and trust will require strengthening law enforcement and addressing the underlying conditions that enable such crimes to flourish.

2. Implications of the Kidnapping Crisis

The ongoing kidnapping crisis in North Shewa, and by extension other parts of Ethiopia, has profound and far-reaching implications that extend beyond the immediate victims. These crimes not only devastate individuals and families but also destabilise communities, undermine governance, and exacerbate existing social and economic challenges. The consequences ripple through Ethiopian society, affecting everything from personal livelihoods to national cohesion. Below is a detailed exploration of these implications within the Ethiopian context:

1. Humanitarian Impact

At its core, the kidnapping crisis inflicts immense suffering on individuals and families. The emotional and financial toll is staggering, leaving deep scars that persist long after the immediate danger has passed.

Emotional Trauma: Families endure unimaginable anguish as they wait for news of their abducted loved ones. The uncertainty surrounding whether hostages will be released alive—or at all—creates a constant state of fear and anxiety. Even when victims are eventually freed, they often return home bearing physical injuries and psychological trauma, requiring extensive support that is rarely available in rural Ethiopian settings.
Financial Ruin: Ransom payments, which can reach astronomical sums (often in the hundreds of thousands or millions of Ethiopian birr), push many families into poverty. To meet these demands, households sell off precious assets such as land, livestock, or family heirlooms. Others resort to borrowing money from informal lenders at exorbitant interest rates, trapping them in cycles of debt. For those who cannot raise the required amount, the loss of a loved one compounds their grief with feelings of helplessness and despair.
Loss of Life: The frequent killings of hostages unable to pay ransoms add another layer of tragedy to the crisis. Each death leaves behind grieving families and shattered communities, further eroding the social fabric. In a country where communal ties are central to daily life, the loss of even a single individual reverberates widely, creating collective mourning and hardship.

2. Economic Consequences

The kidnappings have a profoundly disruptive effect on local economies, stifling trade, discouraging travel, and isolating communities. This economic paralysis disproportionately affects already marginalised regions like North Shewa.

Disruption of Trade and Commerce: Merchants transporting goods between towns and markets face significant risks when travelling along unsafe routes. Many now avoid high-risk areas altogether, leading to reduced availability of essential commodities and higher prices for consumers. Farmers selling produce or purchasing supplies must either take dangerous journeys or forego opportunities altogether, further entrenching poverty in rural areas.
Decline in Mobility: Travel, once a routine necessity for work, education, and family visits, has become a luxury few Ethiopians in affected areas can afford. Fear of abduction deters people from using major roads, forcing them to rely on longer, less efficient alternatives—or abandon travel entirely. This restriction stifles access to healthcare, schools, and employment opportunities, perpetuating underdevelopment and inequality.
Impact on Development Projects: Infrastructure projects, including road construction and upgrades, are hindered by insecurity. Contractors and workers may refuse to operate in high-risk zones, delaying progress and undermining efforts to improve connectivity and stimulate growth. The lack of safe transportation networks also discourages investment, both domestic and foreign, further hampering economic recovery.

3. Erosion of Trust in Government

One of the most damaging outcomes of the kidnapping crisis is the erosion of public trust in government institutions, particularly law enforcement and security agencies. When citizens feel unprotected and abandoned, their faith in the legitimacy and effectiveness of the state diminishes significantly.

Perceived Inaction: The failure of authorities to prevent kidnappings, apprehend perpetrators, or provide adequate protection fosters a perception of indifference or incompetence. For example, repeated attacks along the Gojjam line despite prior incidents suggest either an inability or unwillingness to address the problem effectively. Such failures breed resentment and alienation among Ethiopians, who increasingly view their leaders as out of touch with their struggles.
Cycles of Distrust: Corruption scandals involving security personnel—such as reports of bribery in exchange for delayed responses—further compound disillusionment. When citizens encounter corrupt practices within the very institutions meant to safeguard them, their trust in governance collapses entirely. This breakdown in confidence weakens the social contract between the state and its people, making it harder to implement policies or mobilise cooperation during crises.
Legitimacy Crisis: Persistent insecurity undermines the legitimacy of the Ethiopian government, especially in multi-ethnic regions like Oromia. Citizens begin to question whether authorities prioritise their welfare or are instead focused on consolidating power and resources. This scepticism fuels broader discontent, contributing to political instability and unrest.

4. Social Divisions

Perhaps the most insidious implication of the kidnapping crisis is its potential to deepen ethnic and communal divisions. If these crimes are perceived to target specific groups or carry political undertones, they risk inflaming tensions between communities, particularly Oromo and Amhara populations.

Ethnic Tensions: In Ethiopia’s complex ethnic landscape, any hint of bias or targeting based on identity can spark hostility. For instance, if Amhara travellers are disproportionately victimised in predominantly Oromo areas—or vice versa—the kidnappings could be interpreted as ethnically motivated. Such perceptions fuel stereotypes, breed mistrust, and escalate conflicts between groups, potentially reigniting historical grievances.
Manipulation of Narratives: Politicians or external actors may exploit the kidnappings to advance divisive agendas. By framing the crimes as part of an ethnic or political conspiracy, they can manipulate public sentiment and polarise communities. This tactic not only distracts from genuine efforts to combat crime but also sows discord, making reconciliation more difficult.
Breakdown of Communal Harmony: Traditionally, Ethiopian societies have relied on strong communal bonds to navigate challenges. However, the kidnappings disrupt these relationships by fostering suspicion and fear. Neighbours may begin to view each other with caution, wondering who might be complicit in or benefiting from the crimes. This fragmentation weakens community resilience and makes it harder to address shared problems collectively.

5. Broader National Implications

While the immediate effects of the kidnapping crisis are felt locally, its ramifications extend to the national level, impacting Ethiopia’s stability, reputation, and future prospects.

Threat to National Unity: As kidnappings contribute to ethnic tensions and regional insecurity, they pose a direct threat to Ethiopia’s unity. A nation already grappling with internal divisions cannot afford additional sources of conflict. Without swift intervention, the crisis risks escalating into larger-scale violence, undermining efforts to build a cohesive, inclusive state.
International Perception: Ethiopia’s image as a stable and developing nation is tarnished by reports of rampant kidnappings and insecurity. Foreign investors, aid organisations, and diplomatic partners may grow wary of engaging with a country perceived as unsafe or ungovernable. This loss of credibility hampers Ethiopia’s ability to attract resources and partnerships needed for development.
Human Capital Drain: The insecurity drives skilled workers, professionals, and youth to migrate in search of safer environments. This brain drain deprives Ethiopia of valuable human capital, slowing progress in education, healthcare, and innovation. It also places additional strain on urban centres, where displaced individuals seek refuge, further stretching limited resources.

The kidnapping crisis in North Shewa represents much more than a series of isolated criminal acts; it is a multifaceted challenge with devastating humanitarian, economic, social, and political consequences. Families are torn apart, economies stagnate, trust in government erodes, and ethnic divisions widen—all while the nation grapples with broader existential threats. Addressing this crisis requires urgent and comprehensive action, encompassing improved security measures, transparent governance, and sustained efforts to foster unity and reconciliation.

Without decisive intervention, the repercussions of the kidnappings will continue to reverberate across Ethiopian society, threatening the very foundations of peace, prosperity, and progress.

3. Media Silence and Institutional Failures

The silence of Ethiopian state-controlled media outlets, such as ETV (Ethiopian Television) and Fana Broadcasting Corporation, in addressing the kidnapping crisis in North Shewa is deeply troubling and reflects broader institutional failures. This silence perpetuates a culture of impunity and undermines public trust in both the media and the government. Several interconnected factors help explain why these critical issues are being ignored or downplayed:

1. Political Sensitivity

One of the primary reasons for the media’s reluctance to report on kidnappings is the political sensitivity surrounding such crimes. In Ethiopia, where ethnic tensions and governance challenges are already pronounced, reporting on kidnappings could expose deeper systemic failures or inflame existing divisions.

Fear of Exposing Governance Failures: Highlighting the kidnapping crisis would inevitably draw attention to the inability—or unwillingness—of authorities to maintain law and order. For a government striving to project an image of stability and progress, this exposure could be politically damaging. By avoiding coverage of kidnappings, the state media can sidestep scrutiny of its own shortcomings.
Risk of Ethnic Polarisation: If kidnappings are perceived to target specific ethnic groups, such as Oromo or Amhara communities, reporting on them could exacerbate tensions between these groups. Authorities may fear that openly discussing such crimes could ignite communal violence or fuel narratives of marginalisation and oppression, further destabilising already fragile regions like North Shewa.
Avoidance of Public Outcry: Openly acknowledging the scale of the kidnapping crisis could provoke widespread public outrage and demands for accountability. In a country where protests and demonstrations have historically played a significant role in challenging governance, officials may view media silence as a way to prevent mobilisation against the state.

2. Controlled Narratives

State-controlled media in Ethiopia often operate as mouthpieces for the government, prioritising narratives that align with official agendas while sidelining stories that might embarrass officials or highlight incompetence.

Selective Reporting: Instead of addressing pressing issues like kidnappings, ETV and Fana Broadcasting Corporation frequently focus on positive developments, such as infrastructure projects, cultural events, or minor administrative reforms. For example, the construction of parks and resorts—a luxury in a region plagued by insecurity—is portrayed as a priority, diverting attention from the urgent need for improved safety and justice.
Downplaying Serious Crimes: When kidnappings are reported at all, they are often framed in vague terms, minimising their severity or attributing them to isolated incidents rather than systemic problems. This approach allows authorities to avoid accountability while maintaining the illusion of control.
Suppression of Independent Voices: Journalists and commentators who attempt to shed light on the kidnapping crisis risk harassment, censorship, or worse. The absence of independent media creates an environment where dissenting voices are silenced, leaving citizens without platforms to demand answers or advocate for change.

3. Lack of Investigative Journalism

Ethiopia’s media landscape suffers from a chronic lack of investigative journalism, particularly within state-controlled outlets. Complex crimes like kidnappings require thorough inquiry, data collection, and analysis—resources and freedoms that are largely unavailable to Ethiopian journalists.

Limited Resources: Many media organisations, especially those outside Addis Ababa, lack the funding, training, and equipment necessary to conduct meaningful investigations. As a result, they rely heavily on government press releases or superficial reporting, which fail to capture the true scope of crises like kidnappings.
Self-Censorship: Even when resources are available, journalists may practice self-censorship to avoid reprisals. Covering kidnappings could invite backlash from powerful figures implicated in corruption or complicity, making it safer to focus on less controversial topics.
Absence of Accountability Mechanisms: Without robust oversight bodies or whistleblower protections, there are few incentives for journalists to pursue high-risk investigations. This vacuum allows criminal networks—and potentially corrupt officials—to operate with near-total impunity.

4. Distraction Tactics

Another concerning aspect of the media’s behaviour is its tendency to amplify trivial scandals while ignoring major crises. This strategy appears designed to distract the public from larger systemic issues, including the kidnapping epidemic.

Focus on Minor Scandals: For instance, the recent case of a police inspector accepting a bribe of 200 birr was prominently featured by ETV and Fana, described as a “reinforcing step in the fight against theft.” While combating petty corruption is important, focusing on such minor cases diverts attention from far more egregious failures, such as the inability to prevent mass kidnappings and murders.
Exposure of “False Information”: State media often devotes significant airtime to discrediting opposition voices or labelling dissent as “false information” or “conspiracy theories.” A week prior to the tragic bus attack in Were-Jarso Woreda, officials were preoccupied with dismissing allegations of misconduct, even as kidnappings continued unabated. This deflection tactic ensures that serious issues remain unaddressed.
Symbolic Gestures Over Substantive Action: By highlighting symbolic gestures—such as anti-corruption campaigns targeting low-level offenders—authorities create the impression of progress without tackling root causes. Meanwhile, systemic problems like kidnappings persist, leaving citizens increasingly disillusioned.

5. Compounding the Problem: Lack of Accountability and Transparency

The combination of media silence and institutional failures creates a vicious cycle of impunity, leaving Ethiopians feeling unheard and unprotected.

Culture of Impunity: When kidnappers operate without fear of consequences, it emboldens them to commit ever more brazen crimes. The lack of prosecutions sends a clear message that perpetrators will not be held accountable, further eroding public confidence in the justice system.
Public Disillusionment: Citizens who turn to state media for information about kidnappings find only silence or misinformation. This disconnect fosters a sense of abandonment, as people come to believe that their lives and well-being are not priorities for the government. In turn, this disillusionment weakens social cohesion and undermines efforts to build trust between communities and authorities.
Missed Opportunities for Dialogue: Open discussion of the kidnapping crisis could serve as a starting point for addressing broader governance and security challenges. However, the media’s refusal to engage with these issues stifles constructive dialogue, perpetuating a cycle of neglect and suffering.

The silence of ETV, Fana Broadcasting Corporation, and other state-controlled media outlets regarding the kidnapping crisis in North Shewa is emblematic of deeper institutional failures in Ethiopia. Political sensitivity, controlled narratives, a lack of investigative journalism, and deliberate distraction tactics all contribute to this alarming pattern of neglect. By failing to hold authorities accountable and provide citizens with accurate, timely information, these media organisations betray their core mission and deepen the mistrust that plagues Ethiopian society.

Addressing this crisis requires not only improved security measures, but also a fundamental shift in how the media operates. Independent, transparent, and courageous journalism must be encouraged to ensure that the voices of ordinary Ethiopians are heard and that those in power are held accountable for protecting their citizens.

4. Potential Motives Behind the Crimes

The alarming rise in kidnappings within North Shewa and other parts of Ethiopia raises critical questions about the underlying motives driving these crimes. While financial gain is undoubtedly a primary driver, there are indications that the motivations may extend far beyond mere economic opportunism. A deeper examination reveals the possibility of more sinister objectives, including political manipulation, resource control, and proxy warfare. Understanding these potential motives is essential for addressing the root causes of the crisis and formulating effective responses.

1. Economic Motivation

At first glance, the kidnappings appear to be driven by straightforward economic incentives. Criminal gangs exploit weak law enforcement and porous security systems to extort money from victims’ families, turning kidnapping into a highly lucrative enterprise.

Lucrative Business Model: Kidnapping has become a structured and profitable criminal activity, with ransoms often reaching hundreds of thousands or even millions of Ethiopian birr. For impoverished communities where legitimate economic opportunities are scarce, such crimes offer an attractive—if morally reprehensible—alternative. The high returns incentivise not only individual criminals but also organised networks capable of planning and executing sophisticated operations.
Exploitation of Vulnerabilities: Criminals target vulnerable populations, such as travellers along isolated roads, knowing that their victims are unlikely to resist or escape. The absence of effective policing allows these gangs to operate with relative impunity, further emboldening them to demand ever-higher ransoms.
Cycle of Poverty and Crime: While kidnappers profit handsomely, their actions devastate families and communities. The financial ruin caused by ransom payments pushes many households into poverty, creating a vicious cycle where desperation drives some individuals to join criminal networks themselves. This self-perpetuating dynamic exacerbates insecurity and undermines efforts to foster sustainable development.

2. Political Manipulation

Beyond economics, there are disturbing signs that the kidnappings may serve broader political agendas aimed at sowing division and destabilising regions like North Shewa.

Ethnic Targeting: If certain ethnic groups—such as Oromo or Amhara—are disproportionately targeted in kidnappings, it could inflame existing tensions between communities. Such selective victimisation fosters perceptions of bias and fuels resentment, potentially reigniting historical grievances. In a country already grappling with ethnic polarisation, this tactic risks escalating conflicts and undermining national unity.
Destabilisation Tactics: By creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, kidnappers—or those orchestrating their activities—may seek to undermine confidence in the Ethiopian government’s ability to maintain order. This erosion of trust weakens state institutions and creates fertile ground for political instability. For example, repeated attacks along key transportation routes like the Gojjam line disrupt connectivity and isolate communities, making governance more challenging and fostering disillusionment among citizens.
Divide-and-Conquer Strategies: External actors or domestic factions with vested interests may use kidnappings as tools to manipulate ethnic fault lines. By framing the crimes as part of an ethnic or political conspiracy, they can deepen divisions and rally support for their own agendas. This divide-and-conquer approach not only distracts from genuine efforts to combat crime but also perpetuates cycles of mistrust and hostility.

3. Resource Control

Another plausible motive behind the kidnappings is the desire to control resources and territory, particularly along strategically important transportation routes.

Disruption of Trade: Attacks on travellers and merchants along key routes, such as the Gojjam line, disrupt trade and commerce, weakening local economies. By controlling access to these routes, criminal groups or shadowy actors can exert influence over resource flows, including agricultural products, livestock, and other goods. This control allows them to extract rents, impose tariffs, or monopolise markets for personal gain.
Territorial Influence: Controlling major roads also enables criminals to assert dominance over surrounding areas, consolidating power and intimidating rival groups. This territorial influence can extend to illegal activities such as smuggling, human trafficking, and arms trading, further entrenching criminal networks within the region.
Undermining Development Projects: Infrastructure projects, such as road construction and upgrades, are often targeted because they threaten the interests of those benefiting from insecurity. By sabotaging these initiatives, criminal groups ensure that regions remain underdeveloped and dependent on informal economies, preserving their own illicit operations.

4. Proxy Warfare

Perhaps the most alarming possibility is that kidnappings are being used as proxies for larger political or strategic goals, with external actors leveraging local criminals to achieve their objectives.

External Interference: Foreign entities or regional powers with geopolitical interests in Ethiopia may covertly fund or direct criminal activities to destabilise the country. For instance, fomenting chaos in North Shewa could weaken Ethiopia’s central authority, creating opportunities for intervention or exploitation. These actors may view kidnappings as low-cost, high-impact methods of achieving their aims without direct involvement.
Internal Power Struggles: Within Ethiopia itself, competing factions vying for influence may employ similar tactics. By funding or enabling kidnappings, these groups can discredit rivals, distract attention from their own misdeeds, or justify Draconian measures that consolidate their power. This internal proxy warfare exacerbates fragmentation and complicates efforts to restore peace and stability.
Blurring Lines Between Crime and Politics: The intersection of criminal and political motives makes it difficult to distinguish between ordinary banditry and calculated subversion. This ambiguity complicates law enforcement efforts, as authorities struggle to identify and dismantle the true architects of the crisis.

The motives behind the kidnappings in North Shewa likely encompass a complex interplay of factors, ranging from economic opportunism to political manipulation, resource control, and proxy warfare. Each of these possibilities underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of the crisis, one that goes beyond simplistic explanations and addresses its multifaceted nature.

Failure to confront these underlying motives risks perpetuating the cycle of violence and suffering endured by Ethiopians in affected areas. Tackling the crisis requires not only strengthening law enforcement and improving security, but also addressing the broader socio-economic, political, and structural issues that enable such crimes to flourish. Without a comprehensive approach, the scourge of kidnappings will continue to haunt North Shewa and threaten the stability of Ethiopia as a whole.

5. Why Are the Authorities Silent?

The deafening silence of the Ethiopian authorities—and by extension, the state-controlled media—on the kidnapping crisis in North Shewa is a deeply troubling phenomenon that demands closer scrutiny. This silence cannot be dismissed as mere oversight; it reflects a combination of systemic failures, deliberate choices, and strategic calculations. Below are several factors that help explain why authorities remain conspicuously silent in the face of escalating criminality:

1. Incapacity

One of the most straightforward explanations for the authorities’ inaction is their inability to effectively combat organised crime due to resource constraints, inadequate training, and poor coordination.

Resource Limitations: Many security forces in Ethiopia, particularly in rural areas like North Shewa, operate with limited budgets, outdated equipment, and insufficient manpower. Patrols along key transportation routes such as the Gojjam line are sporadic at best, leaving vast stretches of road unprotected. Without adequate resources, law enforcement agencies struggle to prevent kidnappings or respond swiftly when incidents occur.
Lack of Training: Even when personnel are available, they often lack the specialised training needed to tackle sophisticated criminal networks. Kidnapping rings may employ advanced tactics, including reconnaissance, communication encryption, and escape routes, which outpace the capabilities of local police units. The absence of intelligence-led policing further hampers efforts to dismantle these operations before they strike.
Coordination Gaps: Fragmented command structures and weak inter-agency collaboration exacerbate the problem. For example, regional and federal security agencies may fail to share information or coordinate responses, allowing criminals to exploit jurisdictional loopholes. This disjointed approach undermines the effectiveness of anti-crime initiatives and leaves communities vulnerable.

2. Complicity

Perhaps even more disturbing than incapacity is the possibility of complicity within the ranks of law enforcement and government officials. Corruption and collusion with criminal elements can render authorities unwilling—or unable—to address the crisis meaningfully.

Direct Involvement: Reports suggest that some corrupt officials or security personnel may actively participate in kidnappings, either by facilitating attacks or by demanding bribes in exchange for delayed responses. Such complicity not only emboldens criminals but also erodes public trust in institutions tasked with protecting citizens.
Indirect Facilitation: Even if authorities are not directly involved, their reluctance to act decisively can serve as tacit approval for criminal activities. For instance, turning a blind eye to repeated attacks along specific routes—such as the Gojjam line—raises suspicions of implicit endorsement or negligence. This perceived indifference allows criminal networks to operate with impunity, knowing that consequences are unlikely.
Protection of Interests: In some cases, powerful individuals or groups may benefit from the chaos created by kidnappings. Whether through controlling illicit economies (e.g., ransom payments) or advancing political agendas, these actors have vested interests in maintaining the status quo. Their influence can stifle attempts to hold perpetrators accountable, perpetuating cycles of violence and suffering.

3. Fear of Backlash

Acknowledging the scale of the kidnapping crisis carries significant risks for Ethiopian authorities, who fear triggering public outrage and demands for accountability.

Public Outcry: Openly discussing the prevalence of kidnappings could provoke widespread anger and protests, particularly in regions already disillusioned by governance failures. Citizens might demand resignations, policy changes, or independent investigations—outcomes that authorities may wish to avoid. By remaining silent, officials hope to minimise scrutiny and preserve their legitimacy.
Exposure of Failures: Admitting the severity of the crisis would inevitably highlight the inadequacies of law enforcement and governance. For a government striving to project an image of stability and progress, this exposure could undermine its credibility both domestically and internationally. Silence thus serves as a shield against criticism and embarrassment.
Ethnic Sensitivities: If kidnappings are perceived to target specific ethnic groups, acknowledging the issue could inflame tensions and spark communal violence. Authorities may fear that addressing the crisis head-on would validate accusations of bias or neglect, further polarising already fragile communities.

4. Prioritisation of Other Issues

Another factor contributing to the authorities’ silence is their apparent focus on symbolic projects over urgent security concerns—a choice that reflects misplaced priorities and a disconnect from the realities faced by ordinary Ethiopians.

Symbolic Gestures Over Substance: Instead of tackling pressing issues like kidnappings, authorities often prioritise high-profile initiatives, such as constructing parks, resorts, or infrastructure projects. While these developments may generate positive headlines, they do little to address the immediate needs of citizens living in fear. For example, building recreational facilities in a region plagued by insecurity seems incongruous and tone-deaf, reinforcing perceptions of detachment from grassroots struggles.
Economic vs. Human Security: There is often a tendency among policymakers to prioritise economic development over human security. However, without addressing basic safety concerns, broader developmental goals are unlikely to succeed. Unsafe roads hinder trade, isolated communities stagnate economically, and fearful citizens cannot fully engage in productive activities. By neglecting security, authorities undermine their own aspirations for progress.
Short-Term Thinking: Focusing on short-term wins—such as ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new projects—allows authorities to claim credit for tangible achievements while deferring difficult decisions about long-term challenges. This approach, however, comes at the cost of ignoring systemic problems that require sustained effort and investment.

The silence of Ethiopian authorities on the kidnapping crisis in North Shewa stems from a toxic mix of incapacity, complicity, fear of backlash, and misplaced priorities. Each of these factors contributes to a culture of impunity that empowers criminals and alienates citizens. By failing to acknowledge and address the root causes of the crisis, authorities not only betray their duty to protect Ethiopians but also deepen public disillusionment and mistrust.

Breaking this cycle of silence requires bold leadership, transparent governance, and a genuine commitment to prioritising human security. Only by confronting the harsh realities of the kidnapping epidemic—and taking decisive action to combat it—can authorities begin to rebuild trust and restore peace to North Shewa and beyond.

6. Steps Toward Resolution

Addressing the kidnapping crisis in North Shewa—and by extension, other parts of Ethiopia—requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach that tackles both the symptoms and root causes of the problem. The complexity of the issue demands coordinated efforts across various sectors, including law enforcement, community engagement, media accountability, political dialogue, and socio-economic development. Below is an exploration of these critical steps within the Ethiopian context:

1. Strengthening Law Enforcement

A cornerstone of any strategy to combat kidnappings must be the enhancement of law enforcement capabilities, ensuring that security forces are equipped, trained, and empowered to dismantle criminal networks effectively.

Improved Training and Resources: Security personnel need specialised training in intelligence-led policing, counter-kidnapping operations, and investigative techniques. This includes learning how to track criminal networks, gather evidence, and conduct raids with precision. Additionally, providing modern equipment—such as vehicles, communication devices, and forensic tools—is essential for enabling rapid responses to incidents.
Enhanced Coordination: Fragmented efforts between regional and federal agencies often hinder progress. Establishing clear lines of communication and collaboration among different levels of law enforcement can ensure a unified response to kidnappings. Joint task forces involving police, military, and intelligence units could be deployed to high-risk areas like the Gojjam line to provide round-the-clock security.
Community Policing Models: Adopting community policing strategies, where officers work closely with local residents to identify threats and build trust, can enhance the effectiveness of security operations. This model improves intelligence gathering and fosters a sense of shared responsibility for safety.
Accountability Measures: To address concerns about corruption or complicity, strict oversight mechanisms should be implemented. Independent bodies could monitor the performance of security forces, investigate allegations of misconduct, and hold perpetrators accountable. Transparent reporting on arrests, prosecutions, and convictions related to kidnappings would also demonstrate commitment to justice.

2. Community Engagement

Building trust between communities and law enforcement is vital for creating an environment where citizens feel safe reporting crimes and cooperating with authorities.

Empowering Citizens: Many Ethiopians hesitate to report kidnappings due to fear of retaliation or mistrust of authorities. Establishing anonymous tip lines, whistleblower protections, and community liaison officers can encourage people to come forward without fear of reprisal. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of reporting suspicious activities can further empower citizens to take action.
Local Leadership Involvement: Engaging traditional leaders, religious figures, and elders—who command respect and influence in Ethiopian society—can strengthen community resilience against crime. These leaders can mediate disputes, promote peace building initiatives, and act as intermediaries between residents and law enforcement.
Neighbourhood Watch Programmes: Encouraging communities to form neighbourhood watch groups can complement official security efforts. By working together to monitor roads, share information, and alert authorities to potential threats, residents can play an active role in preventing kidnappings.

3. Media Accountability

The media has a crucial role to play in exposing the kidnapping crisis, holding authorities accountable, and fostering public discourse on solutions.

Investigative Journalism: Independent journalists and civil society organisations should prioritise in-depth investigations into kidnappings, uncovering patterns, identifying perpetrators, and revealing systemic failures. Such reporting can generate public pressure on authorities to act while shedding light on the human cost of the crisis.
Countering State Narratives: State-controlled outlets like ETV and Fana Broadcasting Corporation often downplay or ignore serious issues like kidnappings. Independent media platforms must challenge these narratives by providing balanced, factual coverage that amplifies the voices of victims and their families. Social media can also serve as a powerful tool for disseminating information and mobilising advocacy.
Media Freedom Protections: Journalists who expose corruption or criminal activity risk harassment, censorship, or worse. Strengthening legal protections for press freedom and supporting independent media organisations is essential for ensuring that critical stories are told without fear of retribution.

4. Political Dialogue

If ethnic tensions or political agendas are fuelling the violence, fostering dialogue and reconciliation between communities is imperative for addressing underlying grievances.

Ethnic Reconciliation Initiatives: Kidnappings perceived to target specific ethnic groups exacerbate divisions and erode social cohesion. Facilitating open dialogues between Oromo, Amhara, and other communities affected by the crisis can help dispel stereotypes, rebuild trust, and promote mutual understanding. Grassroots peace building programmes led by respected mediators can lay the groundwork for long-term harmony.
Inclusive Governance: Ensuring that all ethnic groups have equitable representation in decision-making processes can reduce feelings of marginalisation and exclusion. Policies that address historical injustices and redistribute resources fairly can also mitigate resentment and foster unity.
Conflict Sensitivity: Authorities must adopt conflict-sensitive approaches when responding to kidnappings, avoiding actions that could inflame tensions. For example, deploying heavily armed security forces to predominantly Oromo or Amhara areas without consulting local leaders risks being perceived as provocative. Instead, collaborative efforts that involve community stakeholders are more likely to succeed.

5. Addressing Root Causes

While improving security and governance is essential, lasting solutions require tackling the socio-economic conditions that drive individuals toward criminality.

Poverty Alleviation: High unemployment rates and widespread poverty create fertile ground for criminal recruitment. Expanding access to education, vocational training, and microfinance opportunities can provide alternative livelihoods for vulnerable populations. Targeted investments in agriculture, small businesses, and infrastructure can stimulate local economies and reduce reliance on illicit activities.
Youth Empowerment: Young people in Ethiopia’s rural areas often face limited prospects for advancement, making them susceptible to coercion by criminal networks. Creating youth-focused programmes that offer mentorship, skills development, and recreational activities can channel their energy into positive pursuits.
Marginalised Communities: Addressing systemic inequalities faced by marginalised groups—including land rights disputes, lack of basic services, and political disenfranchisement—is crucial for preventing grievances from escalating into violence. Affirmative action policies and inclusive development plans can help bridge these gaps and foster a sense of imperative, as it underscores the urgent need for transparent governance and decisive action.}

7. Conclusion

The kidnapping crisis in North Shewa is far more than a mere security issue; it is a profound manifestation of deeper governance failures and societal fractures that have long plagued Ethiopia. The pervasive silence of authorities and state-controlled media—not only in addressing the crimes but also in acknowledging their scale—has exacerbated the problem, leaving citizens feeling abandoned, vulnerable, and distrustful of the very institutions meant to protect them. This crisis underscores the urgent need for courageous leadership, unwavering transparency, and a steadfast commitment to tackling both the immediate threats and the systemic causes that fuel such violence.

A Symptom of Broader Challenges

At its core, the kidnapping epidemic reflects entrenched challenges within Ethiopian society. Poor governance, ethnic tensions, economic inequality, and institutional corruption have created an environment where criminality thrives unchecked. For many Ethiopians, particularly those living in rural areas like North Shewa, the absence of effective law enforcement and justice systems has turned daily life into a perilous ordeal. Roads once considered lifelines connecting communities have become corridors of fear, while families are torn apart by the emotional and financial devastation wrought by kidnappings. These crimes are not isolated incidents but symptoms of a nation grappling with profound structural weaknesses.

The failure to address these root causes perpetuates a cycle of impunity. Criminals exploit this vacuum of accountability, emboldened by the knowledge that they can act without fear of consequences. Meanwhile, citizens grow increasingly disillusioned with a government that prioritises symbolic gestures—such as building parks or resorts—over safeguarding human lives. This disconnect between leaders and the people they serve erodes trust and weakens the social contract upon which stable societies depend.

The Cost of Silence

The silence of authorities and media is not merely negligent; it is complicit in perpetuating the suffering endured by ordinary Ethiopians. By downplaying or ignoring the kidnapping crisis, state-controlled outlets like ETV and Fana Broadcasting Corporation shield those in power from scrutiny while reinforcing a culture of impunity. This deliberate obfuscation leaves victims and their families voiceless, their stories buried beneath layers of misinformation and indifference.

Yet, the cost of this silence extends beyond individual tragedies. It undermines national unity, deepens ethnic divisions, and stifers economic progress. When roads are unsafe, trade grinds to a halt, isolating communities and stifling development. When citizens feel unprotected, they lose faith in the legitimacy of the state, creating fertile ground for unrest and instability. In a country already navigating complex ethnic and political dynamics, the consequences of inaction could be catastrophic.

Peace and Prosperity Cannot Coexist Without Action

As you rightly point out, peace and prosperity cannot coexist when citizens live in constant fear for their safety. For Ethiopians to thrive, they must first feel secure—a basic right that should never be compromised. The Ethiopian people deserve leaders who place their well-being above political expediency, prioritising justice, transparency, and accountability over short-term gains or self-serving agendas.

Addressing the kidnapping crisis requires bold and sustained action. Strengthening law enforcement, fostering community engagement, promoting media accountability, and initiating political dialogue are all critical steps toward restoring order. However, these efforts must be underpinned by a genuine commitment to addressing the root causes of crime: poverty, unemployment, marginalisation, and governance failures. Without confronting these underlying issues, any solution will remain superficial and temporary.

Final Thought: Remembering the Human Cost

Behind every statistic lies a story—a father taken from his children, a mother forced to sell her home to pay a ransom, a young student left traumatised after witnessing unimaginable violence. These are not abstract numbers; they are real lives shattered by greed, negligence, and malice. Each death, each injury, each family torn apart represents a failure of leadership and a betrayal of public trust.

It is imperative that we remember the human cost of inaction. Every day that passes without decisive intervention is another day in which criminals operate freely, families suffer, and communities fracture. We must demand accountability from those entrusted with protecting us, insisting that they prioritise the safety and dignity of all Ethiopians.

Ethiopia stands at a crossroads. Will its leaders rise to the occasion, demonstrating the courage and integrity needed to confront this crisis head-on? Or will they continue to turn a blind eye, allowing the cycle of violence and suffering to persist? The answer to this question will shape not only the future of North Shewa but also the destiny of Ethiopia as a whole.

Ethiopia Autonomous Media