The UN human rights chief has said gross violations continue to be perpetrated by all sides in Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict and has warned that the country risks being torn apart.

Speaking after limited field trips by investigators working with Ethiopia’s Human Rights Commission, Michelle Bachelet said civilian suffering was widespread.

She accused the Ethiopian government forces and their allies of mass detentions, killings, sexual violence, systematic looting, forced displacement and detention of civilians.

The UN rights chief also highlighted allegations that Tigrayan forces were recruiting child soldiers, attacking civilians in neighbouring regions and causing mass displacement.

She called on all parties to end hostilities immediately, without preconditions, and negotiate a lasting ceasefire.