Bamenda on Edge After Deadly Attacks: Two Police Officers and a Bike Rider Killed in 24 Hours

On the evening of August 7, separatist fighters launched a coordinated attack on a commercial bank on Commercial Avenue, killing two police officers on guard duty. The attack, claimed by the Ambazonian Defense Forces (ADF), involved over ten heavily armed gunmen who arrived in two cars. Eyewitnesses reported intense gunfire lasting several minutes.

"I saw one of the attackers pull a police officer outside and slap him before shooting him," recounted a kiosk owner near the bank to Star TV. The gunmen shattered windows and left bullet holes in the bank's walls, but did not steal any money. Nearby buildings and vehicles also sustained damage from the gunfire.

The ADF released a video showing rifles taken from the slain officers, further heightening tensions and fear among local law enforcement.

In the wake of the attack, tensions boiled over the next morning when police officers opened fire on a bike rider near the Grandstand area of Commercial Avenue. The rider was part of a group of bikers parading in memory of a colleague who died in an accident the previous Friday.

According to reports, the bike rider ignored police orders to stop and approached the officers aggressively. This prompted the police to open fire, killing him on the spot. The incident has sparked further outrage and anxiety among the local population and police force alike.

Police officers in Bamenda are reportedly furious and demoralized following the death of their colleagues. Many officers have expressed dissatisfaction with their working conditions and the perceived lack of support from their superiors.

The recent violence underscores the ongoing instability in the North West Region, where separatist movements have been fighting for independence since 2016. The conflict has resulted in numerous deaths and widespread displacement, with both security forces and civilians caught in the crossfire.

Star TV provided extensive coverage of the aftermath of the bank attack, including eyewitness accounts and footage of the damage. The kiosk owner described the chaos as the gunmen opened fire: "They started shooting and I fell to the ground. I told my son to do the same. The gunfire shattered the window glass, and I saw one of the attackers drag a police officer out and shoot him."

The community is on edge, with many fearing further violence and reprisals. The killing of the bike rider has added to the tension, raising concerns about the potential for more clashes between police and residents.

In response to the escalating violence, there are renewed calls for improved security measures and dialogue to address the root causes of the conflict. Human rights organizations and local leaders are urging the government to provide better support and resources to the police, while also seeking peaceful solutions to the separatist crisis.

The situation in Bamenda remains highly volatile, with the recent incidents highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive and effective approach to restore peace and stability in the region. As the community mourns the loss of life, the focus now shifts to preventing further violence and ensuring the safety of all residents.