The US Embassy in Ethiopia has warned that foreigners are being attacked in cities across the country after being accused of being infected with COVID-19, the respiratory illness caused by coronavirus.
In a security alert posted on its website, the embassy said it "continues to receive reports regarding a rise in anti-foreigner sentiment" since the first case of the virus was detected in Africa's second-most populous state last week.
Typical derogatory comments such as “China” and “ferengi” (a reference to foreigners) have been "reportedly coupled with the label 'corona', indicating a disparaging view on the link between the outbreak of Covid-19 and foreigners in Ethiopia", it added.
"Reports indicate that foreigners have been attacked with stones, denied transportation services... being spat on, chased on foot, and been accused of being infected with Covid-19," the embassy added.
Ethiopia has detected six cases of coronavirus - the first was that of a Japanese national who travelled from the West African state of Burkina Faso.
Latest Stories
-
You’ll be prioritised for jobs in next NPP government – Bawumia to dismissed workers
21 minutes -
Lola Hair and Beauty College officially launched to promote TVET
41 minutes -
Minority condemns sacking of TTH CEO, demands Mahama reprimand Health Minister
41 minutes -
Extraordinary photos from the funeral of Pope Francis
1 hour -
Pope Francis laid to rest after Vatican funeral service
1 hour -
Our polling station executives and grassroots are our greatest assets, I thank them – Bawumia
2 hours -
Trump questions Putin’s intentions after meeting with Zelensky ahead of Pope’s funeral
2 hours -
IACG targets 1,000 market traders and artisans in Western, Western North Regions as part 2025 Micro Business Clinics
2 hours -
Ghanaians should be worried about undermining the judiciary – Ex-Deputy A.G.
2 hours -
2024 Election: Our own members attacked the party and the NDC played them back against us – Bawumia
2 hours -
Incentive packages needed to tackle staff attrition in health sector – Parliament
2 hours -
Let’s give thanks to God for all things – Bawumia declares as he starts ‘Thank You Tour’ in Takoradi
2 hours -
Ghanaians have lost the will to fight ‘galamsey’ – Barker-Vormawor laments
2 hours -
MTN confirms hack; assures customers core systems remain secure
2 hours -
GOC Elections: Evans Yeboah elected treasurer
2 hours