A deadly armed attack on a passenger bus traveling from the Nuer Zone to Gambella City has left three

Bus attack leaves three dead

people dead and several others injured, marking another tragic episode in the region’s escalating security crisis.

According to local sources, the incident occurred around 07:35 a.m. between Abol District and Tharpaam Refugee Camp. The bus, which was part of a convoy departing from the Nuer Zone earlier in the morning, reportedly fell behind schedule. This delay made it vulnerable and ultimately turned it into a target for the attackers.

Witnesses and residents confirmed that the victims included a woman, a child, and the bus driver, all of whom were fatally shot during the assault. The injured passengers were transported to nearby health centres for treatment, though the full number of wounded individuals has not yet been officially released.

Today’s tragedy is not an isolated incident. In October, two people were killed in similar circumstances in Abol District, which lies just 15 kilometres from Gambella City. Community members say they have been living under increasing fear as attacks on civilians continue to rise.

The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) recently warned of a concerning spike in intercommunal violence throughout the Gambella Region. Their report documented repeated confrontations, ambushes, and targeted assaults that have resulted in significant loss of life and displacement.

As authorities launch an investigation into the latest attack, residents are calling for urgent action to restore security along major roads and within vulnerable rural areas. The recurring violence has raised alarm among community leaders, who fear the instability may worsen if effective interventions are not implemented soon.

The situation remains tense as families mourn the victims and the region grapples with yet another blow to its fragile peace.

This Report was filed by Pam Chuol Joack, a Gambella Vision Contributor.