Tragic events unfolded at a bustling intersection within the city of Bamenda in the restive northwest region of Cameroon, as assailants unleashed violence, resulting in the loss of 10 innocent lives and leaving two others gravely wounded, as confirmed by the regional governor on Monday.
According to an eyewitness account, the perpetrators arrived at the scene late on Sunday, in a convoy of vehicles. They proceeded to command the individuals present to prostrate themselves on the ground, accusing them of noncompliance with the cause of local separatists. Tragically, a harrowing situation unfolded as some complied with the assailants’ demands while others attempted to escape, prompting the attackers to indiscriminately unleash a hail of gunfire.
The Ambazonia Defense Forces (ADF), the primary separatist faction operating within the English-speaking region, has categorically refuted any involvement or responsibility for the incident. This armed group, which has been engaged in a protracted conflict since 2017, aiming to voice grievances against perceived marginalization by the predominantly French-speaking government, firmly denies any connection to the tragic event.
According to the witness, a group of individuals dressed in military uniforms arrived at Nacho Junction, a bustling area encompassing restaurants, bars, and shops. The incident occurred approximately at 7:30 p.m. (1830 GMT) when two vehicles made their way to the location, leading to a forceful and alarming intrusion.
Since the eruption of conflict in 2017, following the violent suppression of protests, Cameroon’s English-speaking regions have witnessed a distressing toll with over 6,000 lives tragically lost. The protracted and ongoing unrest has plunged these areas into a state of profound turmoil, leaving behind a trail of devastation and a significant loss of human life.