Suspected Separatists Kidnap Seven Family Members in Western Cameroon

Youndé, September 14 (Daily Kiran) : In a disturbing incident in Western Cameroon, suspected separatist fighters abducted seven members of a single family. This event occurred late Sunday night in the Banguorin area of the Noun division. Reports indicate that armed assailants entered the family’s home and took the individuals hostage.

A local security officer confirmed that all the victims are family members. The attackers struck while the family was asleep, forcing them at gunpoint to leave their home. In response, security forces have launched an operation to rescue the hostages and apprehend the assailants.

Just last week, residents and security officials reported that armed separatist groups in the conflict-ridden English-speaking North-West and South-West regions had declared a week-long lockdown. This announcement has heightened tensions in the area, leading to several clashes.

Separatist leaders stated on social media that the lockdown, which began on September 7, aims to disrupt the start of the new academic session. In the North-West region’s capital, Bamenda, residents have reported a tense atmosphere, with many schools closed and movement severely restricted.

One local resident noted the sound of gunfire, causing widespread fear among the populace. Streets are eerily quiet, shops are shuttered, and most activities have come to a standstill. A video circulating on social media features armed separatists threatening to kill anyone who ventures outside during the lockdown.

To maintain control, additional troops have been deployed in both regions, and patrols have been intensified day and night. Regional authorities have reassured the public that security measures have been strengthened and advised them to resume normal activities.

The armed conflict in the North-West and South-West regions has persisted since 2017, with separatist groups fighting against government forces in a quest to establish an independent nation. In July of this year, seven travelers were also kidnapped in the North-West region while en route from Bafoussam to Bamenda, with kidnappers demanding a ransom for their release. Such abductions for ransom are common in the English-speaking North-West, where separatists continue to clash with government forces in their pursuit of independence.