Travelers heading to Fundong, in the North West Region, were caught unawares on Wednesday, December 18, as they discovered that separatists had resumed hostilities, blocking the vital Fundong-Bamenda road.
The blockade has created significant challenges for the local population, particularly during the festive season.
“It’s only along the road that I learned the roads were blocked at Baingo by separatists. It’s a pity they are doing this to the local population at this time,” lamented one stranded passenger.
The blockade has left commuters with no choice but to endure a grueling journey.
“Vehicles drop us at Mbingo, from there we take bikes for a few meters, then trek for almost 1.5 km to take another bike to Belo before continuing the trip,” said another frustrated traveler.
Exorbitant Transport Costs
Since Thursday, no transport vehicle has dared to ply the dangerous route.
This has forced passengers to rely on trucks and bikes, charging an exorbitant fare of FCFA 10,000 for the 40-kilometer journey from Mbingo to Fundong.
The distance normally costs less than FCFA 1,000 before 2016, when the ongoing Anglophone Crisis started.
“This suffering is unbearable,” commented Didimus Wiyovla on Facebook.
“Is this how our independence will come? Even the people of South Sudan did not suffer like this because they were united. In our case, separatist fighters are instead fighting us.”
Allegations of Separatists’ Extortion
Accusations are mounting against motorcycle riders along the Mbingo-Belo stretch for allegedly colluding with separatists to exploit passengers.
Many claim that the ban on regular transport vehicles is a deliberate move to boost motorcycle businesses, which are reportedly linked to the separatists.
“These terrorists have stopped regular vehicles because the military is present along that stretch, preventing their usual extortion,” said Facebook user Francis Drake.
“They allow bikes because many are owned by them, and a significant portion of the money is transferred to their accounts. This is pure wickedness.”
Other commentators expressed skepticism about the role of bike riders.
“Why are bikes still working? It means they are working hand in hand with the separatists.”
A Dire Situation for Health Emergencies
The blockade is particularly distressing for those traveling for medical reasons.
Animbom, a local resident, described the ordeal of taking her sick mother to the hospital.
“The journey was characterized by exorbitant fares, trekking, and bullets flying over our heads,” she said.
She expressed doubts about making the trip for their next appointment with the doctors.
The situation on the Fundong-Bamenda road highlights the dire impact of ongoing hostilities on the local population.
With the festive season underway, the resumption of separatist activity has left many stranded, frustrated, and fearful for their safety.
