By Gambella Vision
Lare Woreda has laid to rest their beloved son, Dungdit Riam Deng, who was killed in the Abol bus
Dungdit Riam laid to rest in Lare
attack, an incident allegedly carried out by criminal individuals from the Anyuak community. Sadly, this is not the first time innocent people have lost their lives in similar attacks in the Abol area.
For many years, numerous Nuer travelers have been killed along the road between Tharpaam and Gambella, particularly wit
hin the Abol local government area. Dungdit was travelling by bus from Lare Woreda together with other passengers, all of whom were members of the Nuer community. Near Abol town, on the morning of Friday, 05/03/2018 E.C (14 November 2025), the bus came under attack.
Dungdit, along with another young man from Lare Woreda’s Tandaar Kebele, Tethloach Kayier Chol, was killed instantly. Their deaths have caused immense grief to their families and community.
Several passengers survived but were severely injured and are currently receiving treatment in hospital. Those confirmed to be in hospital include:
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Mach Ter Deng, from Baziel Kebele, Itang Woreda – reported to be in critical condition
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Open Thiol Kuompuok full details to be updated
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Nyapieth – full name and details to be provided
The repeated attacks on Nuer passengers by criminal elements believed to be from the Anyuak community have created deep fear and frustration. Just last month, another bus attack resulted in the death of Chuol Gatluak Okuoy, a police officer who was escorting passengers at the time.
The Gambella Police Commission previously stated that the perpetrators of that attack were not Anyuak civilians but members of the Ethiopian National Defence Forces. Many Nuer accepted this explanation, but the recent events suggest that the earlier claim may not have been accurate, raising renewed concerns about accountability.
It is important to note that many Nuer understand that these actions do not represent the entire Anyuak community, but rather specific criminal groups acting on their own motives. However, community members insist that authorities—both at regional and federal levels—must demonstrate impartiality and commitment by ensuring that these criminals are arrested and brought to justice.
The federal government must also be fully informed about any individuals or institutions obstructing the arrest of suspects. The cycle of violence cannot continue, and both communities deserve safety, justice, and protection from those responsible for these crimes.
