Ethiopia: Over Five Killed in Bus Attack in Gambella – Residents Attribute Assault to Murle Militants From South Sudan

Addis Abeba — At least five people were killed and several others injured in an armed attack on a passenger bus in Ethiopia’s Gambella Region on Sunday, 25 May 2025. The bus, which was carrying 47 passengers from Dimma district to Pinyudo town in Gog district, came under gunfire in what residents say was a cross-border assault by suspected “Murle fighters” from South Sudan.

A resident who requested anonymity for security reasons said the attackers–allegedly “Murle fighters”–opened fire on the vehicle, resulting in the immediate death of five individuals. The source added that “children and women were among the victims” and described the incident as “horrific.”

According to the same resident, funeral ceremonies for those killed were held later that day in Dimma woreda.

Another resident confirmed the attack and explained that “the gunfire began before the bus left Dimma district.” The source added that “the driver was killed on the spot” and claimed that “a total of seven people, including passengers, lost their lives.” He also stated that many of the injured were transported to Gambella General Hospital and are currently receiving treatment.

The resident further said the area has seen repeated incidents of violence, allegedly involving “Murle fighters crossing from South Sudan,” and called for urgent action by both governments, saying “people continue to lose their lives at different times.”

The same source noted that federal and regional security forces are currently stationed in the area.