Officers of Cameroon’s Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) successfully conducted a raid in Tan, Bui Division of the North West Region, on September 18. The operation targeted a key Ambazonia separatist commander active in the area.
The separatist commander, identified as “Malian,” was killed during the raid. It is alleged that he operated under the notorious self-proclaimed General “Big Vulture” from Kitiwum.
In the course of the operation, BIR forces recovered a range of weapons and supplies. Among the items seized were one Colt M16-type assault rifle, a magazine containing 21 rounds of 5.56x45mm ammunition, a significant amount of gunpowder, and various other gadgets.
According to military sources, this operation is part of ongoing efforts to prevent separatist forces from carrying out activities on October 1, a day the separatists believe marks their independence.
Despite the military’s continued efforts, the conflict remains unresolved. Many young men continue to join separatist militias, even as military operations intensify. Some observers argue that genuine dialogue is the only way to end the conflict, while separatist leaders maintain that they will continue fighting until the North West and South West Regions achieve independence from the French-speaking majority of Cameroon.
As these opposing views persist, lives continue to be lost, with the civilian population bearing the heaviest toll of the ongoing conflict.
