Death of gendarme over 100FCFA sparks debate on payment for use of travel agency facilities

In the early hours of Thursday July 23rd a gendarme in Douala told his female partner to excuse him. He went to pass out water but never returned.

Dressed in civilian attire, media reports say the security officer had just returned from a mission in Buea with another colleague.

After using the restroom at the Finex travel agency, he was asked to pay the sum of 100 francs, a fee charged everyone who uses the facility.

Reports say the gendarme lacked 100 FCFA as he had only bank notes on him at the time. Other reports hold that he outrightly refused to pay the amount required, leading to a scuffle.

Security camera footage later showed him being hit on the head with a piece of wood as he struggled against some of the persons at the agency that attacked him.

His colleague too was not spared as he tried to intervene. The colleague was severely beaten by the boys at the travel agency and is currently receiving medical aid. The victim was not so lucky, leaving his female partner inconsolable.

Following the incident, elements of the national gendarmerie rushed to the scene arresting the suspects.

Condemning the violence, some believe the officer was supposed to pay for using the toilet.

“To me toilet fee is toilet fee and transport fare is transport fare. What we need is understanding. Some agencies have restaurants and bars, so if you pay your ticket will you go and take anything and drink or eat?” Asks a social media user.

“Why did he not just pay the 100 francs to avoid problems?” Asks another.

Others however think it is unfair to pay for a restroom after buying a travel ticket. “Toilets should be free because you pay for transportation. While waiting for departure time, you eat drink and have to use the toilet,” one opines.

Today’s incident has raised concerns over payments made to use restrooms in travel agencies across the country.

The management of Finex travel agency on its part is yet to make any comments.

Mimi Mefo Info