Douala: Activist Jacques Bertrand Mang Stays in Custody, Claims Charges Are Fabricated

Douala based, political activist Jacques Bertrand Mang has been remanded in custody after his lawyers failed to secure his release during a court hearing in Douala on Thursday July 2, 2026.

Mang, who has now spent two nights at New Bell Central Prison, is facing three charges: assaulting a public official, obstructing the functioning of a public service, and defamation on social media.

During Thursday’s hearing at the Bonanjo Court of First Instance, a team of four lawyers formally took over his defence and immediately filed an application for bail.

One of the defence lawyers, Michael Khumbah Asong, said the legal team had agreed on a defence strategy after consulting veteran lawyer Alice Nkom. However, the court did not rule in favour of Mang’s release and adjourned the matter until July 10, when the prosecution is expected to present its submissions. According to the defence, Thursday’s proceedings ended at about 9 p.m.

Mang, however, on his Facebook account rejects the allegations against him and says he is being unjustly prosecuted.

According to the activist, the incident leading to his arrest began in Youpwé after his mobile phone was allegedly snatched and damaged. He says he went to seek justice over the matter but was instead arrested by police officers, beaten, humiliated, and taken to the judicial police offices.

Mang also disputes the charge of assaulting a public official, claiming it was fabricated. He alleges that the police officer involved deliberately tore his own clothes to create evidence against him and has questioned why no independent investigation has been opened into the incident.

The activist further maintains that his prosecution is linked to his outspoken criticism of poor governance, corruption, police abuses and other social issues in Cameroon. He says he is being targeted because of his activism rather than because of any criminal wrongdoing.

Mang’s account has not been independently verified. Authorities maintain the charges of assaulting a public official, obstructing the functioning of a public service and defamation on social media.