Cameroon Customs Officer Detains Truck, Demands $6,800 Bribe for Release

The incident occurred on Saturday at a mixed checkpoint near Abang Minkong, where Adjutant Constant Oyono Zeh, a customs officer, seized the truck. The vehicle, registered in Cameroon’s North-West region and in the process of being re-registered, was allegedly held on the grounds that it had not been properly cleared through customs.

Rather than insisting on the required customs clearance, Oyono Zeh reportedly demanded 4 million CFA francs (approximately $6,800) from the truck's owner, claiming the money was needed to "prepare for the new school year." This demand for an unlawful payment has sparked outrage, as it is seen as part of a broader pattern of corrupt practices that have plagued the region.

Eyewitnesses and sources familiar with the case allege that Oyono Zeh has a history of engaging in such illegal activities, despite clear directives from both the Director of Customs and the Minister of Finance prohibiting such behavior. The case is now under investigation as authorities seek to address the issue and ensure that such actions do not go unpunished.

The truck, which was transporting goods for trade with Gabon, remains detained, causing delays and potential financial losses for the owner. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in combating corruption within Cameroon’s customs services, where bribery and illegal detentions are not uncommon.

As investigations continue, the business community and local residents are watching closely to see if justice will be served and whether the government will take decisive action to curb corruption at its borders.