Eric Tataw, known to his followers as the “Garri Master,” has been a vocal figure in the ongoing Ambazonia separatist conflict in Cameroon. Recently, he has come under scrutiny not only for his inflammatory rhetoric but also for his activities in the United States. Tataw, who resides in a quiet cul-de-sac in Gaithersburg, has been hosting large pool parties that have drawn the ire of his neighbors. However, it is his alleged involvement in federal crimes and the violent separatist movement in Cameroon that has caught the attention of an investigative team from News4.
Tataw, a self-proclaimed leader and advocate for the Anglophone regions of Cameroon, has been linked to a series of violent acts and radical statements. In numerous online videos, he has called for extreme measures, including the amputation of limbs, to support the separatist cause. Despite these troubling allegations, Tataw maintains that he has undergone a transformation. “What I think is important is to look at where, at a point, somebody makes contrition and makes a positive shift. That’s what life is about,” he told News4’s Ted Oberg.
The situation escalated when federal prosecutors indicted Tataw on multiple counts, including bank fraud, wire fraud, identity theft, money laundering, and obstruction of justice. According to court records, Tataw allegedly defrauded the Paycheck Protection Program of $163,000 and later attempted to intimidate witnesses involved in the investigation. When confronted about the charges, Tataw deflected, stating, “Anything related to the further indictment, only my lawyer can talk.”
Eric Tataw’s neighbours have expressed concern over his activities and the potential danger they pose. Jung Lee, who lives next door, described the situation as “alarming” and “of concern.” Despite these worries, Tataw seems to remain unfazed, asserting his right to host parties and dismissing the charges against him as unfounded. “I will never, ever stop the parties so long as I am not doing anything illegal,” he told News4’s Walter Morris.
In Cameroon, Tataw’s name resonates with controversy. He has openly supported the separatist movement, which seeks to create an independent state for the English-speaking regions of the country. The conflict has led to significant violence, with Tataw being accused of encouraging brutal tactics against opponents. Although Tataw denies these accusations, videos reveal him making ominous threats. “I will have my men at your houses, and you may not be able to leave,” he warned Cameroonian government officials in one video.
For now, Tataw remains confined to Maryland, having surrendered his passport as part of the federal indictment. He has pleaded not guilty, but the charges against him are severe. If convicted, he could face substantial penalties, including the forfeiture of his Gaithersburg home, which he used to host the contentious pool parties.
Eric Tataw’s future remains uncertain as the legal proceedings unfold. It is evident, however, that his actions, both domestically and internationally, are not going to disappear any time soon. The “Garri Master” finds himself at a critical juncture, struggling with the repercussions of his previous choices while being closely observed by his community and the authorities.
