The North West’s regional capital, Bamenda, faced an unsettling Christmas morning as an explosion from a locally made explosive device damaged three makeshift shops at T-Junction.
Eyewitnesses recount a sudden, deafening explosion that shattered the morning calm, only to realize later that the aftermath involved flames consuming the small businesses.
One eyewitness lamented the extensive damage caused by the explosion.
“My brother’s dress shop has been burnt completely, while the fruits in a nearby kiosk have also been affected by the flames,” he said.
The origin of the explosive remains unclear, but suspicions immediately arose, pointing fingers at separatist fighters.
This form of violence, often associated with separatist groups, has previously targeted the military but unfortunately ends up harming the civilian population.
“That is how the amba boys have been operating; they plant explosives targeting the military but end up harming the helpless population. Look at the destruction in these hard times,” said a local resident, Manu (not his real name).
The incident has added a somber note to Christmas celebrations in Bamenda, already grappling with the challenges of a traditional ghost town every Monday.
Despite the festive occasion of nativity, the streets remained eerily empty, contrasting the usual Christmas day hustle and bustle.
The atmosphere, usually vibrant with people flooding the streets, was replaced with an unsettling quiet, as residents opted to stay indoors to avoid potential dangers associated with the sporadic violence that has plagued Bamenda.
The impact of the explosion reverberates not only in the physical damage to the shops but also in the disruption of the Christmas festivities.
Many citizens have chosen to celebrate within the confines of their homes, steering clear of public spaces to mitigate the risk of encountering violence or mass shootings, which have sadly become a grim reality in the city.
The situation is reflective of the broader uncertainty prevailing across many towns and villages in the Anglophone Regions of Cameroon.
Christmas Day, falling on a Monday, aligns with the traditional ghost town observance, further contributing to the deserted streets and subdued celebrations.
While some brave the desolate streets to attend church services, the majority of residents are opting for a quieter celebration within their homes.
The incident is a reminder of the challenges faced by the population, caught in the crossfire of conflict during what should be a time of joy.
