Soldiers demand ‘ransom’ for locals arrested in Koke, Bissingi raids

By David Atangana

The populations of Koke and Bessingi Villages found in Buea subdivision of Fako division in the restive South West region are in shock following an indiscriminate arrests carried out in the locality by security forces.

Soldiers reportedly entered Koke, and Bessingi Thursday August 18, 2022 arresting locals, MMI was told.

Those arrested, according to information gathered were taken to South West Legion office of the national gendarmerie in Buea where they were asked to each pay the sum of 20,000frs in exchange for freedom.

“… military men came and force people doors in the name of ‘Cale cale’ took away fathers, mothers sons and daughters to legion buea weather you have an Identity card or not,” a local told MMI on the basis of anonymity.

While at the Legion office, they were asked to pay some money in exchange for freedom or risk being implicated.

“At the legion, those in position of the national identity card were asked to pay 20.000frs and above according to age and business,” he source added


Those without identity cards according to our source were reportedly sent to the Buea central police station where they will be subject to further interrogation.

It should be recalled that Koke and Bessingi have been raided several times in the past by government forces.

The government has not made any public statement explaining why the two villages were targeted.

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