Gunmen Kill Man Near Church in Bamenda’s Nkwen Area

On the evening of Sunday, June 15, a man was killed by armed individuals believed to be separatist fighters in the Nkwen area of Bamenda III, North West Region.

The victim, identified as Mr. Penn, worked for a microfinance institution in Bamenda. He was shot a few metres from a church premises by yet-to-be-identified gunmen. Eyewitnesses however, say the shooters appeared to be Ambazonia separatist fighters. This has not yet been confirmed as no group has claimed responsiblity.

Shooting Followed Church Service
Eyewitnesses reported that the shooting occurred shortly after evening church activities. The sound of gunfire caused panic, sending passersby fleeing the scene. Mr. Penn, a resident of Wan-Poultry Allahlie Quarter, was later found lifeless by the roadside.

Security forces arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. The motive for the killing remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing. The lack of a clear motive further casts doubts over whether the killing is linked to the Anglophone crisis or targeted.

Rising Insecurity in Mile 4 Nkwen
This is the second reported killing in the Mile 4 Nkwen area within two weeks. This has raised concern about security in the locality. The area has recently experienced a series of violent incidents, leading to increased anxiety among residents.

Local residents have expressed alarm over the deteriorating situation and are urging authorities to implement stronger protection and response measures to ensure public safety.

Once Considered Safe, Now a Concern Zone
The Nkwen area was previously classified as a “yellow zone,” attracting many residents due to its relative safety. However, recent developments have altered this perception, with the area frequently appearing in headlines for violent events.

According to witnesses, Mr. Penn was last seen during a church service on Sunday. He had performed a song in commemoration of Father’s Day.

MMI