Justice/Human Rights

66 Youths Arrested in Bonakanda Released, 24 Still Detained

Out of the 87 youths arrested in Bonakanda, Buea, 66 have been released following a successful investigation. Colonel Kola, Commander of the South West Gendarmerie Legion, facilitated their release after the individuals were cleared of any wrongdoing during the inquiry.

“We acted on intelligence gathered on September 1, regarding the existence of a terrorist lodge around Bonakanda. We mapped the area and conducted operations that led to these arrests. We’ve been investigating ever since, and I must say those released have been cleared,” said Colonel Kola.

24 Still in Detention

While the majority have been released, 24 individuals remain in detention. Colonel Kola explained that some evidence had been found against those still held.

“We shall present them before the Commissioner of Government on Tuesday, and from there, the necessary legal actions will follow,” he added. He further assured that due process will be observed.

Families Concerned Over Health of Released Youths

Families of the released youths have welcomed their return, though concerns remain regarding their physical and mental health after weeks in detention.

“We are grateful that they are back, but since his return, we’ve been to the hospital. He hasn’t been healthy,” one parent told MMI.

Rights Defenders Call for Judicial Oversight

Human rights advocates have applauded the release but are calling for a swift and transparent judicial process for those still detained. Barrister Edward Lyonga Ewule, of Legend Law Offices in Buea is one of those working on the cases.

“Releasing 66 out of 87 is a positive development and a win for all of us. However, we are focused on securing the release of everyone arrested. We urge the security forces to expedite the process so the remaining 24 can also receive justice,” he said.

Background on the Arrests

In response to information about alleged terrorist activity, the Gendarmerie detained over 87 youths on September 1, 2024, in Bonakanda, a locality in Buea. The arrested Bonakanda youths were held for over three weeks, without charge. The release of the 66 followed protests led by women from Bonakanda, who marched across Buea demanding the release of all those arrested.

Mimi Mefo Info

Claude Kengfack

Recent Posts

Cameroonians Among 11 Arrested in Nairobi Over Multi-Million Gold Scam

Detectives in Nairobi have arrested 11 suspects, including two Cameroonian nationals. They were arrested in…

2 hours ago

In Pictures – Labour Day 2025 Celebrated with Colour and Call for Rights in Bamenda

The 139th edition of International Labour Day was marked in Bamenda with a vibrant display…

2 hours ago

Traoré Thanks Supporters as Mass Rallies Reject Foreign Interference

Burkina Faso’s president, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, has expressed his gratitude to supporters around the world…

3 hours ago

Fako Trade Unions Decry Non-payment of Salaries at Labour Day Celebration

Some trade unions in Fako Division, South West Region, are urging for better working conditions…

7 hours ago

Bokwaongo Royal Family Rejects Njie Mbonde’s Designation as Chief

By Tata Mbunwe The designation of journalist Albert Njie Mbonde as Chief of Bokwaongo village…

8 hours ago

Menka Village Responds to Separatist Attacks: Kidnapping and Recovery of Stolen Equipment

Youths in Menka, a village in the Pinyin area of Cameroon’s North West Region, have…

9 hours ago