By Abukar Osman - Reporter
Ethiopia, 25 December 2025 At least 47 people have been killed in a surge of violence in Ethiopia’s western Gambella region, as authorities imposed a new night-time curfew amid worsening insecurity.
According to local sources, the fatalities occurred during an attack targeting the sub-town of Tharpam in the Itang district. It remains unclear whether the reported death toll reflects preliminary figures or the final casualty count.
The medical aid group Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) said it has treated more than 100 people suffering from weapon-related injuries, warning that additional casualties could arrive in the coming days if the violence continues.
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MSF noted that the deteriorating security situation has had a severe impact on civilians, including women, children, and people with disabilities. The organization reported that homes were set ablaze, forcing residents to flee, while unverified claims suggest that individuals from across the border may have been involved in the violence.
Amid these developments, the Gambella regional government announced on 25 December the imposition of an open-ended night-time curfew covering Gambella city and other areas affected by security disturbances, as authorities seek to contain the unrest and prevent further bloodshed.
