By Kate Bih
Cameroon’s elite military force, the Rapid Intervention Battalion (BIR) has inaugurated a new logistics base in one of the strongholds of Ambazonia separatists, Kumbo, which is the headquarters of Bui Division in the North West.
During the recent inauguration, the town’s Mayor, Venatius Mborong, passionately appealed for heightened BIR security measures to aid the municipality’s recovery from the ongoing armed conflict in the English-speaking Regions.
The event, chaired by the Senior Divisional Officer for Bui, witnessed the presence of Colonel François Pelene, the General Coordinator of the BIR.
In his address, Mayor Mborong stressed the critical need for additional security resources to combat the threat of Separatists’ violence in the region.
“We require more BIR security posts to help our municipality break free from the grip of armed conflict,” he said.
Colonel François Pelene echoed Mayor Mborong’s sentiments, urging soldiers to utilize the newly established base effectively.
“I call on all soldiers to prioritize the well-being of the general population and work towards its benefit,” Pelene stated.
He also called upon the local population to collaborate closely with security forces by providing timely information to aid their operations.
“Our aim is not to incite the populace to confront the terrorists, but rather to seek their cooperation and support in securing the region,” Pelene affirmed.
Bui Division, where Kumbo is located, has emerged as one of the most volatile zones in the North West Region, grappling with the menace of armed insurgency.
The area has witnessed the emergence of numerous self-proclaimed ‘Generals,’ whose actions have not only destabilized Bui but also spilled over into neighboring Donga Mantung Division.
The Region’s turmoil has attracted national attention, with high-profile individuals falling victim to kidnappings.
Notable figures such as the late Social Democratic Front (SDF) party national Chairman, Ni John Fru Ndi, and the late Cardinal Tumi, Cameroon’s lone Cardinal, were both kidnapped in Bui.
Additionally, a harrowing incident involving the abduction of a newborn baby from a hospital, where the mother was assisted by a military patrol team during childbirth, underscores the gravity of the situation.
The impact of the conflict on the lives and livelihoods of the local populace has been profound, prompting many to flee their communities in search of safety and stability.
Despite the challenges, Mayor Mborong remains hopeful that with increased security measures and collaborative efforts, the municipality can gradually reclaim peace and prosperity.
