At least seven people were killed in Ethiopia's northern Amhara region when worshippers and security forces clashed during a religious festival, police said on Sunday.

The fighting took place between youths and police officers during a Christian celebration to mark the baptism of Christ in the town of Woldiya on Saturday, officer Amare Goshu said on national television.

Among the dead were six worshippers and one security officer, according to Goshu. At least 17 others were injured, he added.

Angry protesters burned down several hotels, restaurants and shops in response to the clashes, witnesses told dpa. One witness said that exchanges of gunfire could be heard in Woldiya until midday Sunday.

The Amhara region has been engulfed with widespread, violent anti-government protests for several months due to residents feeling excluded from political and economic power.

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