Grand Resort, the biggest hotel and the tallest building in Gambella, well known for hosting federal
General Mulatu
officials, regional leaders, and foreign visitors, came under a deadly and well-coordinated armed attack last night.
The incident has shaken the city and raised serious concerns about security in the region, which has already been struggling with instability for more than four months.
According to information received from local sources, the attack was carried out by armed Anyuak criminals. The assault began with a powerful explosion that rocked the Grand Resort building, causing panic among guests and staff.
Moments after the blast, heavy and continuous gunfire was heard inside and around the hotel compound. Residents living nearby reported hearing gunshots for an extended period, forcing many families to stay indoors in fear.
The Grand Resort is not an ordinary hotel. It is widely known as the main accommodation centre for Ethiopian federal government officials, senior military officers, and foreign visitors travelling to Gambella.
Because of this, the attack was not only violent but also highly symbolic. Many observers believe the attackers deliberately chose this location to send a strong and dangerous message.
Sources who spoke to this page revealed that the gunmen were specifically targeting high-ranking Ethiopian federal government officials and military generals.
Among the reported targets was General Mulatu, who had recently been deployed to Gambella as part of federal efforts to contain and manage the growing unrest in the region.
For weeks, Gambella has been experiencing tension, violence, and insecurity, prompting the federal government to send senior officials and military leaders to restore order.
The attackers reportedly entered the area with a clear mission. Their goal was not random destruction, but to hit a place known to house powerful figures of the state.
The Grand Resort, long considered a secure and protected location, therefore became a strategic target in this ongoing conflict.
Tragically, the attack claimed the life of one person. The victim was a foreign national who was staying at the hotel at the time of the assault. This loss of life has further intensified public anger and sorrow.
Several other guests and hotel staff narrowly escaped harm, fleeing the building amid the chaos and confusion. Some were seen running for cover as gunfire echoed through the area.
Soon after the attack, security forces arrived at the scene and sealed off the hotel and its surroundings. Roads leading to the resort were blocked, and a security operation was launched to regain control of the area.
By early morning, the situation was relatively calm, but fear and uncertainty remained widespread across the city. For many residents of Gambella, this attack represents a dangerous turning point.
Bombing and shooting at the region’s most prominent hotel, traditionally viewed as a safe place for government guests and international visitors, has crossed a serious line. Civilian spaces that were once respected are now being dragged directly into violent conflict.
Community members and observers believe this act shows a complete disregard for human life, peace, and basic moral values.
Targeting a hotel that hosts civilians, workers, and foreign guests has not only endangered lives but also damaged the image of Gambella as a place capable of welcoming visitors and conducting official government business safely.
The economic impact is also a growing concern. Hotels like Grand Resort play an important role in the local economy, providing jobs and supporting surrounding businesses.
Continued attacks of this nature threaten to drive away visitors, investors, and humanitarian partners who are already cautious due to the ongoing instability.
As of now, no official government statement has been released with full details of the incident, but investigations are reportedly underway.
Many are calling on authorities to take urgent and decisive action to restore security, protect civilians, and prevent further escalation of violence. The people of Gambella are once again left grieving, anxious, and uncertain about what lies ahead.
With tensions already high, this latest attack has deepened fears and highlighted the urgent need for peace, accountability, and genuine efforts to address the root causes of the unrest.
Without swift and responsible action, many worry that such attacks may become more frequent, pushing the region further into crisis.
The Author of this article is Pam Chuol Joack, a scholar and an analyst specialising in Gambella affairs.
