As the war in Cameroon rages on, civilians in the Anglophone regions find themselves caught in the crossfire, facing not only the threat of violence but also pervasive human rights abuses. Among the most concerning violations are arbitrary arrests, confiscation of phones, and house searches conducted by government forces.
Arbitrary arrests have become a routine tactic employed by government security forces as part of their counter-insurgency operations in the Anglophone regions. Suspected separatist sympathisers or individuals perceived to be dissenters are often targeted without warrant or due process in Buea and across the anglophone regions. Once detained, many are subjected to interrogation, torture, and prolonged detention without access to family member or legal representation.
In addition to arbitrary arrests, the confiscation of phones has become widespread, particularly during security operations or house raids. Phones are seen as potential tools for communication among arm fighters or for documenting human rights abuses, making civilians vulnerable to scrutiny and suspicion. Security forces often seize phones under the pretext of gathering intelligence, leaving individuals without means of communication with their families or access to vital information.
House searches have also become a common occurrence in conflict-affected areas. Government forces frequently conduct raids on civilian homes in search of weapons, contraband, or suspected separatist sympathisers. These searches are often conducted without warrants and involve intimidation, harassment, and destruction of property. Civilians are left feeling violated and vulnerable in their own homes, with little recourse for justice or accountability.
Arbitrary arrests, phone seizures, and house searches have a profound impact on the lives of civilians in the conflict-affected areas. Families are torn apart, livelihoods disrupted, and communities traumatised by the constant fear of arbitrary detention and harassment. The erosion of trust between civilians and security forces further exacerbates tensions and fuels resentment, perpetuating a cycle of violence and instability.
The international community has a critical role to play in addressing these human rights abuses in Southern Cameroon. Diplomatic pressure must be exerted on the Cameroonian government to uphold its obligations under international law and respect the rights of civilians. Humanitarian organisations should provide support and assistance to victims of arbitrary arrests and house searches, including legal aid and psychosocial support.
Ultimately, a peaceful resolution to the war in Cameroon requires a commitment to human rights, accountability, and a peaceful separation of Southern Cameroon. The systematic abuse of power through arbitrary arrests, phone seizures, and house searches only serves to deepen the divisions and prolong the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire. It is imperative that all parties involved prioritise the protection of civilians and work towards a sustainable peace that respects the dignity and rights of all Southern Cameroonians.
Written By: Djofang Ngesse
