Nicholas Nkongho Manchang, the Divisional Officer (DO) of Bamenda II Subdivision, has allegedly been abducted along with five other individuals. The abduction took place in Ntumbaw as the group was travelling to Nkambe for the installation of the newly appointed Senior Divisional Officer for Donga Mantung.
In 2020, Nicholas Nkongho Manchang took on the position of Divisional Officer for Bamenda II in Mezam Division. This disturbing incident draws attention to the frequent targeting and kidnapping by separatist fighters in the area. This will be the second divisional officer who has been kidnapped during the duration of the conflict that has been baptised the Anglophone crisis.
The Ambazonia Separatists are believed to be the main suspects in the kidnapping. This movement is known for advocating for the independence of the Anglophone regions in Cameroon. The incident underscores the persistent security challenges in the region as separatist activities continue to affect local civilian populations and disrupt economic activities. At the time of this report, no Ambazonia separatist group has claimed responsibility for the abductions, though information from locals state that they might be responsible.
Currently, there is no official statement from the government regarding the kidnapping. The lack of information from officials only deepens the sense of uncertainty surrounding the situation, leaving the public anxiously anticipating any updates regarding the safety and well-being of Nicholas Nkongho Manchang and the other individuals involved.
MMI is closely monitoring the developments, while many Cameroonians have taken to social media to stress the importance of a quick and efficient response to guarantee the safety of government officials operating in difficult and conflict-ridden regions.
