Cameroon military forces ambushed and killed an alleged Ambazonia separatist fighter in Mile 3 Nkwen, Bamenda, on Sunday, March 23. The victim, identified as an escapee from the Bui Unity Warriors in Sop, Bui Division, was accused of harassing civilians and extorting money, particularly from bike riders.
According to military sources, the operation targeted the individual based on intelligence linking him to extortion and harassment of local residents, particularly bike riders. “He was known for terrorising the community, demanding money and creating fear,” a source within the military, speaking on condition of anonymity, said. “We had to act to protect the people.”
Eyewitnesses, who were reluctant to give their names due to fear of reprisal, corroborated the military’s claims, alleging the deceased was responsible for kidnappings and torture in the vicinity of St Paul Secondary School Nkwen.
“He made life unbearable,” one resident said. “People were living in constant fear. We couldn’t even leave our homes safely.”
Mobile Phone Recovered
The military reportedly recovered a mobile phone from the deceased, which they are now using to track other suspected separatist fighters.
“This phone is a crucial piece of evidence,” the source said. “It will help us dismantle their network and bring more criminals to justice.”
However, the incident has elicited mixed reactions from the local community. While some residents expressed relief at the elimination of a perceived threat, others voiced concerns about potential repercussions. “Of course, he was a problem, but now, what about revenge?” questioned one resident. “His friends will come. They always do. We are all scared of what will happen next.”
Another resident, who also requested anonymity, echoed this sentiment. “The military action might bring temporary relief, but it also escalates the tension. This cycle of violence never ends.”
The killing comes amidst ongoing conflict between the Cameroonian government and Ambazonia separatist groups seeking independence for the English-speaking regions of the country. The area around Bamenda has been a hotspot for violence, with both sides accusing each other of atrocities against civilians.
