On April 21, 2024, officers from the Bamenda Central Police station conducted an operation resulting in the apprehension of 27 drug abuse suspects, including women and girls. The operation took place at a location known as “Seven Door” in the Old Town neighbourhood of Bamenda II subdivision. The suspects were allegedly involved in the trafficking of hard drugs, commonly referred to as callou, Marijuana, and the possession of stolen items.
Emmanuel Mbock, Central Police Commander, confirmed the arrests, stating, “Over 20 persons were arrested; drugs commonly called callou and stolen items were recovered in their keeping.”
The crackdown came after directives issued during a security meeting with the regional delegate for national security. The gathering dwelled on the need to combat drug consumption in Bamenda.
However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential complicity of security forces in the drug trade. Recent reports by MMI shed light on allegations of collusion between security forces and drug dealers in Bamenda. Witnesses claim to have observed security vehicles frequenting known drug business sites, raising suspicions of corruption within the forces.
While some residents commend the police action, suggesting it may be linked to a refusal by dealers to pay off authorities, others demand accountability within the security forces. Calls for transparency and justice extend to those within the defense and security sectors allegedly involved in drug consumption and facilitation.
“It is good that they have started acting against a business they have been promoting; this will bring some sanity into the town,” said a city dweller.
Responding to questions during another police operation the same day, Wilson Njume Njikang, the North West Regional Delegate for National Security, reaffirmed the commitment to eradicate the drug trade, acknowledging its detrimental impact on youth and society. “We have started this operation, which will take us to other hideouts for drug business. We have a duty to eradicate the drug business,” Njikang noted.
Highlighting the link between drug consumption and criminal activities, Njikang stressed the importance of restoring order in Bamenda, emphasising that a significant portion of crime in the area is perpetrated under the influence of drugs.
Critics say the Anglophone crisis, which started in 2016, has exacerbated the practice in Bamenda.
