Sylviane Cécile Owona, a 26-year-old woman, died after being molested by her partner, Declan Kwibeth, who is now a man on the run. This has now been recorded as one of the first cases of domestic violence recorded in Yaounde this year.
The incident happened on January 11 during a heated argument between Sylviane and Kwibeth, reportedly over the property title of a newly acquired store.
The dispute escalated, leading to Sylviane being assaulted by her partner, who is now on the run.
Neighbors attested to the fact that Declan Kwibeth had a history of mistreating his wife during confrontations.
The disagreement over the property title proved fatal, and Sylviane succumbed to the injuries Kwibeth inflicted on her hours later.
Authorities from the 14th district police station in Yaoundé are actively pursuing Declan Kwibeth, who fled the scene after the tragic incident.
The news of Sylviane’s death has stirred deep emotions within the community, with neighbors expressing shock and grief.
Amelie Amougou, a neighbor of the deceased, lamented the loss, remembering Sylviane as a hardworking and beautiful woman.
“Oh lord! my neighbor! my friend who is always smiling, we even wondered if this girl ever got angry often…, very hard working and Beautiful woman, I met you all this week in the neighborhood you were always smiling as usual, we couldn’t imagine what you were going through. My heart is bruised, lord soothe our hearts,” Amelie Amougou lamented.
Social media responses to the incident highlighted the broader issue of domestic violence, with some questioning why victims often find it challenging to escape violent homes.
“I don’t understand how someone hits you once and you don’t abandon him in the name of love. The rest of us have been married for 24 years without ever being slapped a day. Thank you, Lord, for this wonderful husband. Here is a mother who loses her daughter. Lord give her the strength to overcome this difficult ordeal,” remarked Alexandra Enora on Facebook.
The discussion also touched on the role of community leaders, urging them to intervene and denounce such behavior within their neighborhoods.
Christophe Mambou emphasized the responsibility of community leaders to ensure the well-being of residents.
Sylviane Cécile Owona leaves behind her two-year-old son and grieving family members.
The tragic incident has sparked a renewed call for awareness and action to address domestic violence and protect vulnerable individuals within communities.
