Catholic Priest freed after two days in Amba captivity

By Amina Hilda

In a harrowing episode highlighting the escalating tensions in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, Rev Fr Haris Wadinga Fonyam, a priest from the Archdiocese of Bamenda, was released after spending two nights in captivity under the control of Ambazonian separatist fighters.

Father Haris Wadinga Fonyam’s ordeal began on November 12, 2023, when he was abducted from the Parish house in Baba I, Ngoketunjia Division.

The Catholic priest, serving at St. Mark Parish Baba 1, was thankfully released on November 14, 2023.

The Bamenda Archdiocese has not released any statement on Rev Fr Fonyam’s predicament.

The news of the priest’s release has sparked concerns among social media users, with some expressing worry about the potential conflict between separatist fighters and the Catholic Church.

Benjamin Ncham voiced these concerns, questioning, “What crime has the Catholic Church and its servants committed again to the boyses?”

However, amidst the apprehension, there were expressions of gratitude for the safe return of Father Haris Wadinga Fonyam.

Kom Tong Kem conveyed gratitude, saying, “The Lord says touch not my anointed and do my prophet no harm. Thank you Yahweh for bringing your child back unharmed.”

Paul Ngang emphasized the urgency to influence a change in the attitudes of those involved, stating, “Convert the boyses to fear God and have faith in God Almighty.”

Tragically, Father Haris Wadinga Fonyam’s release comes on the heels of another disturbing incident in the region.

A few days prior, Br Cyprian Ngeh, a Catholic missionary, fell victim to a brutal stabbing while en route to Ndamukong with his younger brother and a laboratory technician.

Eyewitnesses reported a premeditated act as a stone was found inside the car, used to shatter the vehicle’s windscreen, leaving Brother Cyprian vulnerable in the driver’s seat.

The prevailing crisis in the North West and South West Regions continues to exacerbate insecurity, resulting in a rising toll of lives lost.

ALSO READ: Insecurity grips Bamenda as residents face escalating harassments

As the community grapples with the aftermath of these incidents, there is a growing call for concerted efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and ensure the safety of individuals, including religious figures, caught in the crossfire.

The events underscore the urgent need for dialogue and reconciliation in the region to bring about lasting peace and stability.

Mimi Mefo Info