15 November 2020
BENISHANGUL-GUMUZ REGION: SWIFT COORDINATED ACTION IMPORTANT TO IMPROVE SAFETY AND SECURITY
The Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is saddened to learn of a gruesome attack on a passenger bus heading from Wonbera to Chagni (Debate Woreda) in Benishangul-Gumuz Region during the night of 14th November 2020. According to information obtained by EHRC, the estimated number of casualties, currently at 34, is likely to rise as there are reports of similar attacks in other woredas (Wubgish, Yamp and Kidoh) of the region and of persons who have fled to seek shelter. EHRC Chief Commissioner Daniel Bekele said, “The latest attack is a grim addition to the human cost which we bear collectively. Reports of the swift intervention of government security forces to prevent further escalation thereof is encouraging.”
Recalling EHRC’s statement of 26 September 2020 underlining the particular gravity and repetition of attacks in the region, the Chief Commissioner added “The unrelenting pace of attacks on civilians in Benishangul-Gumuz calls for higher vigilance and a more coordinated action between regional and federal security forces. We urge the federal and regional security and judicial authorities to work together, and in consultation with the local community, to redesign a regional security strategy that can put a final stop to these attacks.”
