Bamenda denizens decry ADF excesses
By Wilson Musa
Bamenda is currently under siege as armed groups, notably the Ambazonia Defense Forces (ADF), have intensified their activities in recent weeks. Residents have reported a surge in violent incidents, including gunfights, abductions, armed robberies, and killings.
The ADF, mourning the loss of their notorious commander “General Weapon,” has imposed strict ghost town measures of four lockdowns on Saturdays, including a Monday lockdown. These measures and collaboration between the ADF and the “Banso New Boys” have further destabilized the city.
The security forces, including the Cameroon military, police, and gendarmerie, have been accused of negligence and complicity, with many residents alleging that they are more focused on extortion at checkpoints than protecting civilians. The impunity enjoyed by armed groups has emboldened them to operate with increasing brazenness, often carrying out attacks in broad daylight.
In the process of “mourning” General Weapon and Colonel Mami seized 6 luxury cars from civilians, killed Mayor Njoko, and burned 12 taxis in Bamenda.
“The killings, seizure of phones, attack on call box operators, abductions, threats on taxi drivers, and two ghost towns preceding Christmas day are nothing but pure terror imposed on an already suffering population.” A resident said.
