Far North: Researchers mistaken for Boko Haram, burned alive
Two individuals, identified as researchers from The University of Garoua, along with their driver, were reportedly burned alive by a mob in the Far North Region of Cameroon. Local media reports indicate that they were conducting a geological research mission when locals mistakenly identified them as members of Boko Haram.
The newspaper L’Oeil du Sahel reported in its Wednesday edition that Jean Bosco Avom Dang, Senior Divisional Officer of the Mayo-Tsanaga division, informed Midjiyawa Bakari, the governor of the Far North region, about the tragic deaths of the three individuals. The report stated that they were unknown persons who arrived in the village of Souledé Roua and were deemed suspicious by the community. The incident occurred on March 2, 2025.
Among the victims was a researcher from CRGM in Garoua and an adjunct professor at Garoua University. This incident of mob justice has drawn widespread condemnation. Local authorities have firmly denounced these acts and emphasised the importance of reporting suspects to law enforcement rather than resorting to violence.
Opposition political leader Cabral Libii noted that the population feels inadequately protected, stating, “We urgently need a state that protects its citizens and that emerges from the fortresses of perpetual power in which it remains entrenched,” in a Facebook post on March 6.
The Mayo-Tsanaga division has been severely affected by the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the Far North region. A report revealed that between January 18 and February 5, 2025, at least 556 households, comprising 4,634 individuals, were displaced due to repeated attacks by Boko Haram terrorists.
