Armed Attack on Passenger Vehicle in Metekel Leaves 7 Dead and Several Abducted

A deadly attack by armed elements on a civilian transport vehicle in the Metekel Zone of Benishangul-Gumuz Region has left at least seven people dead and four others wounded. According to local sources and a Mandura Woreda employee, the attack targeted an 'Abadula' passenger vehicle traveling from Chagni to Gilgel Beles. Residents also reported that several passengers were abducted during the incident. Giragn Gudeta, Chairman of the Regional Council's Standing Committee for Justice, Peace, and Democracy, urged the regional government to protect citizens and bring perpetrators to justice rather than remaining silent. Meanwhile, the head of the Benishangul-Gumuz Peace and Security Bureau, Biniyam Mengesha, stated that investigations are underway and forces are being deployed to stabilize the zone. Mengesha attributed the recent instability in the area to activities connected to extremist Fano elements, asserting that proportional security actions are being taken.