At least 25 people have reportedly been killed and 80 others injured in a wave of deadly violence in Gambella city, according to eyewitness accounts, with residents describing intense exchanges of gunfire, burning homes, government offices and property, and an atmosphere of fear that has disrupted daily life and forced some people to flee their homes.
Residents described heavy gunfire during confrontations involving armed actors of Anywaa and the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF). The violence reportedly left people dead and injured, while fires damaged homes, offices and other property. The casualty figures, which remain unverified by Gambella Vision, point to a potentially devastating escalation that demands urgent clarification from the authorities.
One eyewitness traced the latest escalation to an incident on October 13, 2026, when three people reportedly lost their lives. According to the account, residents carried a body toward the city council, after which gunfire erupted.
Other residents said violence and attacks had been occurring repeatedly since September.
Residents also raised concerns about alleged attacks targeting people locally referred to as Habesha, including members of the Amhara community living in Gambella. One resident said people were struggling to determine which authorities they could turn to for protection, describing widespread fear and anxiety. Some residents were reportedly leaving their homes because they feared further violence. These accounts highlight the vulnerability of civilians caught amid conflicting accusations and escalating insecurity.
The Gambella Regional Police Commission has acknowledged that a nighttime attack resulted in deaths, describing the perpetrators as unidentified and announcing emergency measures in response to the security situation. However, the available statement does not provide a detailed account of the reported killings or identify those responsible. Conflicting claims from residents about the attackers’ identities have further intensified questions surrounding the violence, making transparent investigation and reliable public information essential.
Gambella Vision attempted to reach security agencies for comment on the reported casualties, the security situation and the authorities’ response, but the attempt did not go through. Their response was therefore unavailable at the time of publication.
The reported toll of 25 deaths and at least 80 injuries remains subject to independent confirmation. If confirmed, the figures would indicate a severe humanitarian and security emergency for Gambella city. Authorities must urgently clarify the number of people killed and injured, investigate reports of burned homes and property, and explain what concrete steps are being taken to protect residents and prevent further attacks.
For civilians, the immediate concern is whether they can remain in their homes, move around the city and access help without fear of being attacked. Official calls for calm will carry little weight unless residents see credible protection on the ground and receive reliable information about the unfolding crisis.
Gambella cannot afford more unanswered deaths, more fear or further attacks on civilians. The reported casualties demand urgent clarification, credible investigations and effective protection for every resident, regardless of ethnicity or background.
Gambella Vision
