Zigagué: New Kidnapping on the Kousseri–Maroua Highway, Authorities Silent in the Face of Boko Haram

Fear has once again taken hold along the Kousseri–Maroua road. Yesterday, just outside Zigagué, a tourist bus with 18 seats, license plate EN 095 and driven by Modibo, was violently attacked by armed men identified as members of the Boko Haram terrorists. Ten passengers, including six women, were abducted in front of helpless witnesses.

According to several survivors, the attack was swift and calculated. “They appeared out of nowhere, armed and determined. In just a few minutes, they took the passengers and vanished,” recounted one survivor, still in shock. No claim of responsibility has been made so far, and there appears to be no official lead to locate the hostages.

An attack that defies the security apparatus

Despite repeated announcements of reinforced security in Cameroon’s Far North region, Boko Haram continues to adapt its tactics. This time, the assailants reportedly used horses to cross flooded areas, evading military patrols.

“Even in the rainy season, we thought they’d be slowed down. But they know how to get around obstacles, and we’re still the targets,” lamented a Zigagué shopkeeper.

A worrying silence

Since the attack, neither the government nor local authorities have issued an official statement. This silence fuels both anger and fear among residents. “It feels like we’re left to fend for ourselves, like our lives don’t matter,” said a local woman, fearing the situation will only get worse.

Several local sources have suggested the possible existence of collusion in the region, enabling the insurgents’ movements. If confirmed, such a revelation would highlight deep weaknesses in the fight against terrorism.

Zigagué, a name now synonymous with danger

The Kousseri–Maroua axis, vital for trade and travel, has become a high-risk route. Travelers now set off with fear in their hearts, aware that each journey could turn tragic.

“When you hear Zigagué, you think of blood and tears. As long as nothing changes, no one is safe,” said a bus driver.

In the absence of visible action from the authorities, the sense of abandonment grows. Meanwhile, ten families await news of their loved ones—hostages of an armed group that continues to challenge the Cameroonian state.

MMI