TPLF accuses senior commander of treason

The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) has accused one of its top commanders, Major General Yohannes W/George, who surrendered to Ethiopian government forces on Sunday, of committing "treason."

In a statement released, the TPLF accused the commander of having established contact with the enemy, following the recent battles.

General Yohannes, also known as John Medid, was part of the TPLF central command and was the military commander in southern Tigray.

According to sources speaking to the BBC, General Yohannes, his personal guard, and seven senior-ranking commanders were forced to surrender after being surrounded by Ethiopian government forces and their local allies in Qushee Simret of the Rama district, central Tigray region.

However, the Ethiopian government has yet to release any information regarding this matter.

The commander of Tigray's security forces, Major General Gabraigzaaber Bayyanaa, also known as Waddi Anxiruu, confirmed to the BBC that General Yohannes has surrendered.

“I spoke to him on the phone. He was my friend and my commander, so I cannot easily discuss his situation. It is good that he is alive, and the most important thing is that they met,” he said.

If the news of General Yohannes's surrender is confirmed, analysts say this could be a significant blow to Tigray's forces.