By Zera Nambu
Travelers and commercial drivers along the Bamenda-Kom road are facing mounting frustration and severe economic strain.
Reports are increasing of systematic extortion and unprofessional conduct by security forces manning numerous checkpoints.
This practice has led to skyrocketing transportation costs and a sharp decline in movement along this vital route.
Military personnel deployed along the road frequently stop vehicles to demand illegal payments from drivers. This forces drivers to hike their fares to cover the cost of these bribes, directly impacting passengers.
Many people are now canceling their trips because travel has become too expensive and unpredictable.
“It is becoming unbearable,” said one driver, who asked to remain anonymous for fear of retaliation.
“Every few kilometers, you hit another checkpoint. They stop you for no reason and demand money. If you don’t pay, they refuse to let the car pass or a little debate We have no choice but to pass these costs onto our passengers.”
The heavy military presence and their involvement in duties usually handled by the police have caused widespread resentment.
While security forces are meant to maintain order in the unstable North West Region, citizens are dismayed to see soldiers taking over control specifically to demand money.
“We expect the police to manage the roads and check any necessary documents not the military especially when it turns into extortion,” said one traveler.
“The number of soldiers doing this has increased drastically. It feels like we are being punished just for trying to move around.”
This situation is fueled by the volatile security landscape of the Anglophone Crisis.
While the military is officially deployed to combat separatist activity and ensure safety, critics argue that these unofficial taxes are eroding public trust and worsening the economic hardship of the local population.
These constant stops not only delay travel but also create an environment of fear and uncertainty.
Calls for accountability and professionalism within the military are growing louder. Until action is taken, the Bamenda-Kom road remains a challenging and costly route
