Ambazonian separatist leader Ngeh Cyprian, known as “General The Only Bro,” and his gang have carried out multiple attacks in Bamessing and Kedjom Ketinguh. The attacks have resulted in civilian casualties and abductions. The self-styled separatist fighters who are under the command of Samuel Ikome Sako, based in the USA, have left a trail of pain and distress across the community.
Attack in Bamessing
On Wednesday, February 19, 2025, “The Only Bro” led an assault in Bamessing, culminating in the deaths of at least five civilians. Eyewitnesses report that among the victims was a woman with a newborn baby. She was allegedly forcibly removed from the local Catholic Church and publicly executed. A source disclosed that Ngeh Cyprian contacted another separatist in Kedjom Ketinguh and bragged about his killings.
“At least now weh I don kill people for Bamessing, una go stop for di talk say I di only target pipo for una village” he allegedly said.
Funeral Attack and Kidnappings in Kedjom Ketinguh
Further violence erupted on February 22, 2025, when Ngeh Cyprian and his group targeted mourners at a funeral in Kedjom Ketinguh. An unspecified number of civilians were kidnapped, and four vehicles were stolen during the raid. The assailants are reportedly demanding a ransom of 28 million FCFA for the release of the abducted individuals.
A History of Violence
“The Only Bro” has a documented history of violent actions against civilians. On January 6, 2025, he was allegedly hired to assassinate Leo Vishi Newuh in Kedjom Ketinguh. Earlier, on June 27, 2024, he reportedly shot and killed Desmond Nyinying and Marcel Awonsang.
Extortion in Bamukumbit
In August 2024, Ngeh Cyprian also issued a severe ultimatum to the villagers of Bamukumbit, demanding 12 million FCFA (approximately $20,000) to purchase weapons. The residents faced accusations of collaborating with government forces against the separatists, and he threatened mass kidnappings if his demands went unmet. He stated in a widely circulated audio recording:
“You people will contribute and buy two guns for us. These two guns cost 12 million. If these guns or the money is not provided, I will kidnap all of you, and each person will pay 5 million in ransom.”
This threat reflects a broader pattern of intimidation and extortion employed by separatist groups to finance their activities, often at the expense of local communities.
Kidnappings in Bamessing
Furthermore, in February 2024, separatist fighters under Ngeh Cyprian’s command kidnapped six individuals in Bamessing. The victims included relatives of local government officials and members of the security forces. This abduction was reportedly in retaliation for the arrest of five civilians by government forces. The separatists further issued a two-day ultimatum, threatening to kill the hostages if their demands were not met.
Context of the Anglophone Crisis
Various armed separatist groups have carried out numerous attacks on civilians in Cameroon’s North-West and South-West regions. This has contributed to the broader escalation of the Anglophone Crisis. The conflict caused significant loss of life, displacement, and ongoing instability in the affected areas.
Challenges have arisen in efforts to resolve the crisis. This is because government forces and separatist groups continue to engage in violent confrontations, often placing civilians in the crossfire.
