A group of Cameroonians seeking to travel to the United States has been reportedly detained in the Republic of Congo for approximately nine months without any judgement, according to information sent to Mimi Mefo Info (MMI). Sources close to the individuals have expressed deep concern over the prolonged detention and alleged denial of bail.
Plea for Intervention
The plea for intervention, directly addressed to MMI, highlights the distress of those connected to the detained individuals. “Please, a group of Cameroonians who were trying to travel to the US were arrested in Congo about months ago; to date, no judgement, and they have been denied bail,” the message stated. “We are pleading if you can post on your page to call the attention.”
This direct appeal highlights the desperation and lack of recourse felt by those advocating for the release or at least due process for the detained Cameroonians.
Identities of Some Detained Individuals
A list of names, purportedly of some of the detained individuals, has been received. These names include:
- Kari Armstrong Taku
- Noah Israel Toam
- Aka Legal Fonchenited
- Viyee Ntui Arrey
- Tendo Funwi
- Nyunwi Ringnie Bertine
- Gbenjo Massstam M.
- Bismael Aziz
- Obong Mbe Donatus
- Gabche Ngang Anyi
- Nadzie Ndi Stephane
- Mforlep Alassan
- Mbangsa Yvi Arnauld
- Ella Jean Frederick
- Ndeng Celestin
- Ntawang Penngue A.
- Mbidick Marie Jacqueline
- Nji Rita Ateh
- Sachi Marie Claire
- Ambang Regina
- Fomga Chantal
- Acha
The provided information also included names listed under “Nom des parents” (Names of Parents) and, in some instances, phone numbers. This suggests that families are aware of the detention and are actively seeking assistance.
Concerns Over Due Process
The extended period of detention without trial raises significant concerns about the human rights and access to justice for these Cameroonian nationals within the Republic of Congo legal system. International human rights standards emphasise the importance of timely judicial proceedings and the right to a fair trial. Prolonged pre-trial detention can have severe physical and psychological impacts on individuals. The alleged denial of bail further compounds these concerns, leaving the individuals in a state of uncertainty.
Call for Attention
Mimi Mefo Info has chosen to highlight this situation to bring it to the attention of relevant authorities, human rights organisations, and the wider public. The hope is that increased awareness will prompt action to ensure the well-being and legal rights of the detained Cameroonians are respected and that they are afforded due process under the law in the Republic of Congo.
This is a developing story, and MMI will continue to follow up on any further information regarding the situation of these Cameroonian nationals in the Republic of Congo.
