New Security Measures: Bamenda Enforces Night Motorcycle Ban After Deadly Explosion

The order emphasizes that anyone violating these provisions will face penalties as per the existing rules and regulations. This decision comes just two days after an explosion at a bar in Bamenda killed two people and injured many others. The attack has been claimed by Ambazonian forces, further escalating tensions in the region.

The North West (NW) and South West (SW) regions of Cameroon have been plagued by ongoing conflicts between separatist groups and government forces. The Ambazonian forces, in particular, have enforced lockdowns and "ghost town" strikes, significantly disrupting daily life. These strikes have delayed school reopenings and threatened farming activities. In Nkambe city, NW, the Ambazonia Defence Force burned dozens of motorbikes in April as punishment for non-compliance with their strikes.

Throughout March and April, separatists clashed with government forces, detonating around a dozen roadside bombs in the NW region, damaging military patrol vehicles, and causing casualties. Government forces responded by killing several notorious separatist fighters, including two in Bafut and Batibo areas on April 8, and two more near Kumba city in the SW on April 24.

Additionally, on May 20, the Mayor of Belo Council, Dr. Ngong Innocent, and the Inspector of Basic Education for Belo were killed in an ambush while on their way to the National Day celebration. Meanwhile, two prominent repentant separatist fighters publicly criticized the government's demobilization program in mid-April, highlighting unfulfilled promises.

The recent restriction on motorbike circulation in Bamenda is part of the broader effort to curb violence and restore order in these troubled regions.