Addis Ababa officials accuses ‘refugees’ of plotting terrorism, destabilization in capital
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a stern warning to foreign nationals and residents with expired or invalid visas, warning that failure to comply with immigration laws carries serious legal consequences.
During a weekly press briefing, Ministry spokesperson Nebiyat Getachew (Amb.) declared the government would not tolerate unauthorized residency and stated that individuals who disregard visa requirements will be held accountable.
The Ministry also cautioned Ethiopian travelers heading to the United States to strictly adhere to visa conditions and avoid overstaying. Nebiyat emphasized the importance of verifying the authenticity of documents used for visa processing whether sourced from government or private entities.
In a related update, the US Embassy in Addis Ababa announced major revisions to its visa policy.
Effective July 8, 2025, the validity period for most nonimmigrant visas issued to Ethiopian citizens will be limited to three months and single entry only, marking a significant change in US visa regulations. This update is part of broader visa policy changes also affecting Cameroon, Ghana, and Nigeria.
Meanwhile, security concerns rise in Addis Ababa as the City Council reveals findings in its annual report accusing “refugees” residing in the capital of involvement in criminal activity.
City Police Commissioner Getu Argaw reported the crimes include counterfeiting US currency, homicide, robbery, and inciting public unrest. He stated that individuals stand accused of colluding with “destabilizing forces” to undermine city stability.
Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie addressed the Council with a blunt message: “Respect for international refugee law does not mean compromising our national security. Refugees were given safe haven, but we will not allow that hospitality to be abused.”
She confirmed that foreign nationals without legal status have been apprehended in connection with terrorism plots and other criminal undertakings.
“We have opened our city to protect the vulnerable, not to endanger our peace,” she said.
