Gunshots Rock Parts Of South West As Separatists-Imposed Lockdown begins

The past days have witnessed an increase in activities in the restive North West and South West regions.Until late last night, shops, roads and travel agencies were busy as hundreds either prepared for or escaped the lockdown announced by Ambazonia separatists ahead of Sunday’s twin elections.Starting last night, inhabitants of the two regions were once more plunged in fear as several neighborhoods experienced gunshots.In Kumba III, residents say gunshots also echoed for hours early this morning at Apollinaire street leaving them in fear. Other streets in Kumba and other towns are also empty as residents stay indoors.”Gunshots we are hearing here in Muea-Buea are unbearable, since 7:50AM we being hearing gun shots everywhere till now” a resident of Muea tells MMI.Amateur videos and pictures of the University of Buea on social media show the campus empty with just a few students and no classes taking place.For the past days, the forces of law and order engaged in a series of raids, making indiscriminate mass arrests. Coupled with threats by Ambazonia fighters on politicians and others against taking part in the elections, there is a lot uncertainty in the region.MMI