By Beatrice Manka’a
A young woman identified as Rebecca fell victim to a kidnapping and sexual assault reportedly orchestrated by one Frank Zeno Messina in Ndokoti, Douala.
Frank was arrested alongside his friend after they forcibly interrupted the young woman’s life four days ago.
They reportedly intimidated her with a dagger and forcefully took her to a residence in Ndopsibbi, where she claimed to have endured multiple instances of sexual abuse.
The perpetrators had reportedly demanded a ransom of FCFA 2 million in exchange for her release.
In response to the incident, her family filed a formal complaint with the local authorities, prompting swift investigative action.
This pursuit led to the apprehension of the primary suspect, Frank Zeno Messina, and his alleged accomplice, Kamga, who was found in possession of the dagger used in the crime.
During preliminary statements, Frank Zeno claimed that he was under the influence of marijuana at the time of the appalling event.
On the other hand, Kamga, aged 23 and purportedly an associate of Messina, denied any knowledge of the young woman.
He asserted that his only involvement in the crime was the possession of the dagger utilized by his friend.
The prevalence of rape in Cameroon remains a pervasive issue, with incidents of sexual violence regularly reported across the country.
Rooted in cultural norms that perpetuate gender inequality and violence against women, this problem underscores the urgent need for effective legal mechanisms and societal awareness to address and prevent such heinous crimes.
Efforts have been made in recent years to shed light on the issue of rape in Cameroon, aiming to enhance support services for survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
The phenomenon has prevailed despite heavy penal sanctions awaiting perpetrators.
Section 296 of the Cameroon Penal Code explicitly addresses rape, stating that individuals who, by force or moral ascendency, compel another person to engage in sexual intercourse can face imprisonment ranging from 5 to 10 years.
Gender-based violence cases, especially rape, have surged in the North West, South West and Far North Regions which are suffering armed conflicts.
According to Reliefweb, 2,386 GBV cases were recorded in these regions in the first quarter of 2023.
©Mimi Mefo Info
