Ethiopian Security Forces Intercept Massive Ammunition Consignment Sent by Eritrean Regime to Armed Groups Using Fano Label

Addis Ababa, January 14, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopian security forces, in coordination with other agencies, have intercepted more than 56,000 rounds of ammunition clandestinely sent by the Eritrean government to arm armed groups operating under the Fano name, in a concerted effort to destabilize the country.

The consignment was seized at the Woldiya checkpoint in North Wollo Zone, Amhara Region, resulting in the arrest of two suspects.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the ammunition, dispatched from Asmara, was received by an extremist faction of the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) in Mekelle, Tigray Region, before being transported by truck to Shewarobit in North Shewa Zone, Amhara Region, for distribution to these armed groups.

According to a statement issued by the Federal Police, the TPLF faction, acting as a conduit for the Eritrean government, sought to undermine national peace by supplying 41,999 Kalashnikov rounds, 14,000 Bren bullets, and 800 Dushka rounds—a total of 56,799 rounds.

The ammunition was concealed in an Isuzu truck, license plate 3 A.A. B94744, loaded with cement and construction materials, and intercepted at Woldiya while en route to Shewarobit.

The two suspects, apprehended on January 13, 2026, are currently under investigation.

The Federal Police statement emphasized that mercenaries and collaborators have been repeatedly arrested while attempting to disrupt national security, obstruct development, and threaten Ethiopia’s stability. Authorities urged the public to continue cooperating with security forces, noting that hostile actors remain active and intent on undermining peace.