Vitalis freed after two-year imprisonment

Yaounde, Cameroon (CNA)– A local man, Vitalis, was released from prison on July 30th after serving two years of a 15-year sentence for a charge of failing to report an offense related to secession.

The ordeal began in 2022 when Vitalis, a palm oil transporter operating between Buea, Muyuka, and Limbe in the South West region was apprehended at a police checkpoint. His phones were confiscated, and he was subsequently accused of spying for Ambazonian secessionists. Despite irregularities in the evidence, including lacking a certified phone expert in court, Vitalis was initially sentenced to 15 years imprisonment, his lawyer, Barrister Akere Muna

Following a successful appeal by the former Bar Council President, the sentence was reduced to one year. Vitalis has now been reunited with his family. This case highlights concerns about the region’s legal process and human rights.

Barrister Muna, who spearheaded the appeal, expressed relief at the outcome and emphasized the importance of advocating for the rights of Cameroonians facing unjust accusations.