Moungo: 135 persons detained in a gendarmerie raid
Dozens of persons arrested in a raid by gendarmes in Nlohe – Manjo subdivision, Moungo Division of the Littoral region are still in the gendarmerie custody for offenses they allegedly committed.
At least 135 of them were arrested for either nonpossession of their national identity cards, drug trafficking, or theft. 21 of the persons without ID cards were released on Monday, September 23, 2024, after interrogation.
Gendarmes said the operation was aimed at fighting insecurity in the locality but some locals said the men in uniform did not give time for people to show proof of their ID cards; citing a violation of rights.
“It was as a result of many complaints we received from people about attacks, drug trafficking and so on that we decided to carry out the operation. It’s a locality with people from different areas like IDPs from the neighboring South West region. Some criminals even come and hide here. We have been struggling to maintain peace here.” Lt. Col. Zang Godeffroy, assistant commander of the Littoral Gendarmerie Legion explained.
14 cartons of contraband drugs, and 56 motorbikes without documents were seized.
While some persons complained about how the operation was carried out, others said it was a good move, “It is a highly lauded initiative by the gendarmes. At least we will be able to go to our farms and see our crops in tact. We used to farm while thieves did the harvesting. This operation will also permit us move without fear of being harassed by hoodlums.” one person noted.
It was an occasion for the the gendarmerie officials to exalt the notables as well as the inhabitants to trust and collaborate with the gendarmes to wage war against persons causing atrocities in the village.
