Three people were kidnapped in broad daylight in Nkwen on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, creating a wave of panic as heavily armed Ambazonia separatist fighters opened fire in the air and clashed briefly with security forces, eyewitnesses and local sources have confirmed.
The incident began at Ghana Street, where a well-known motorbike parts dealer was abducted. Moments later, two other individuals were taken around Mobile Nkwen, with the gunmen transporting the victims on four motorbikes to an unknown destination.
According to witnesses, the kidnappers ran into traffic congestion while fleeing and fired gunshots into the air to force their way through. Security forces in the area reportedly responded immediately, leading to chaotic scenes as residents ran for safety, hiding in shops, homes, and roadside structures.
Authorities have not yet confirmed casualties or whether the kidnappers successfully escaped with all three victims. The motivation behind the abductions is still unclear.
The attack caused ripple effects across the subdivision, with at least 30 students at GBHS Bayelle collapsing in shock after hearing the intense gunfire. Some students were transported to the PMI District Hospital, while others received first aid on campus. Reports suggest the number affected could be above 40, as some parents rushed to pick up their children and took them to various health facilities.
Eyewitnesses told MMI that the assailants were riding on four motorcycles, each carrying three separatist fighters, and opened fire at Mile 2 Junction before security forces fired back.
Nkwen has witnessed a rise in similar incidents in recent weeks, including a deadly exchange on Sunday that left several security personnel dead. Residents say today’s kidnapping is especially troubling, as the wife of the Ghana Street dealer, who was abducted less than a month ago, had only recently been released after a ransom was reportedly paid.
As the Christmas season approaches, many in the Bamenda III Subdivision are calling for tighter security measures to restore calm in the area.
Local authorities have not yet released an official statement on the incident.