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.
