Conflict in Bamenda: Taxi Torched by Armed Gunmen Amid Rising Tensions

This incident unfolded between Sacred Heart College Mankon and Cho’Obou Junction in the Bamenda Two subdivision.

Eyewitnesses, their voices trembling, recounted the harrowing scene. The perpetrators, believed to be separatist fighters, descended upon the area with chilling determination. Their mission: enforcing a ‘no car’ circulation ban they had imposed in the Mezam division. This ban, a direct response to a recent prefectorial order issued by the Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) for Mezam, suspended motorbike circulation in the Bamenda 1, 2, and 3 subdivisions.

The suspension came in the aftermath of a deadly bomb attack at a local bar in late May 2024—an attack claimed by Ambazonian forces, further escalating tensions in the region. The charred taxi now stands as a stark reminder of the ongoing conflict and the drastic measures separatist fighters are willing to take to assert their authority.

Motorbikes, a critical mode of transportation for many residents, have been caught in the crossfire. The ban has sparked unrest and retaliation from separatist groups, leaving affected residents in a state of fear and uncertainty. Daily lives and mobility hang in the balance, underscoring the urgent need for resolution in the North West region of Cameroon.

Throughout March and April, separatists clashed with government forces, detonating roadside bombs that damaged military patrol vehicles and caused casualties. In response, government forces targeted notorious separatist fighters, eliminating them in Bafut, Batibo, and near Kumba city. Tragically, on May 20, the Mayor of Belo Council, Dr. Ngong Innocent, and the Inspector of Basic Education for Belo fell victim to an ambush while en route to the National Day celebration.

Amidst this turmoil, two repentant separatist fighters publicly criticized the government’s demobilization program, exposing unfulfilled promises. The recent motorbike circulation restriction in Bamenda is part of broader efforts to restore order and curb violence in these troubled regions.

Stay vigilant as developments unfold.