NAIROBI, March 13 (Xinhua) -- About 5,000 Ethiopians have fled into Kenya to seek refuge in the northern border town of Moyale, the Kenya Red Cross Society (KRCS) said on Tuesday.

The KRCS said the number of Ethiopians entering Moyale continues to increase.

"Currently, the refugee status of these individuals is yet to be determined. Once this determination is made, then hopefully there can be a proper setting of camps if need be," KRCS Secretary General Abba Gullet said in a statement.

"At the moment, most are integrated with the host community, relatives and friends," Gullet said.

According to the humanitarian agency, about 5,000 Ethiopians had arrived in Moyale, the majority being women and children.

Gullet said registration is ongoing in all the concentration areas in Moyale town, and in Sololo area more Ethiopians continue to stream into Moyale.

"With the onset of the long rains, we may have serious challenges, especially issues of health, sanitation and water," he said.

"We hope and pray that a solution is found."

The Ethiopian government said its forces killed nine civilians near Moyale on Saturday after mistaking them for members of the banned Oromo Liberation Front, who were attempting to sneak into the country.

Kenya's Eastern regional police commander Moses Ombati said security has been heightened in the area.

"We have deployed more police officers to ensure law and order is maintained and also ensure their safety," Ombati said by phone.