A court in Mekelle has sentenced Awot Negasi to death for his role in the kidnapping and murder of Mahlet Teklay, a 16-year-old girl from Adwa. The second suspect, Nahom Fitsum, received a life sentence for his involvement in the crime.
Mahlet was abducted in March while on her way to a language class. After days of frantic searching, her family was met with devastating news—her remains were discovered three months later in a location revealed by the suspects.
According to police reports, the suspects confessed to killing Mahlet after demanding a ransom of three million birr from her father. Tesfaye Amare, head of the Adwa City police office, told BBC Tigrigna that the suspects strangled the young girl and buried her. Disturbingly, Awot contacted Mahlet’s father three days after the burial, falsely claiming the girl could be returned if the ransom was paid.
The case has ignited widespread anger across Tigray, with many condemning the brutal crime. Public rallies and protests have called for stronger government measures to address a surge in violence, including kidnappings, rape, and murder, particularly against women.
The prosecutor in the case described the killing as “horrifying” and sought the death penalty for both suspects. However, the court handed Nahom Fitsum a life sentence, citing lesser involvement compared to Awot.
Mahlet’s father, Teklay Girmay, expressed satisfaction with the court’s verdict, calling it “appropriate” and urging authorities to ensure justice for similar crimes.
Since the end of the war in the region, Tigray has seen repeated reports of violent crimes, leaving communities demanding accountability and safety.
