Cameroon authorities have intensified efforts to combat knife-related violence, with police and gendarmerie conducting patrols and operations in various localities. The crackdown comes after a series of violent attacks, including the murder of a pastor who was stabbed to death in Obala. Authorities have made several arrests and seized machetes, poignards, and other weapons.
On November 1, gendarmes in Yaoundé arrested Amoussou E., 24, who was found carrying a machette in his pants. This arrest was part of a series of operations launched two months ago to curb knife-related violence in the Centre region. The strategy has already yielded results, with the dismantling of a network of five young men who were using knives to rob victims in over ten Yaoundé neighborhoods.
The gendarmerie operation, led by Adjutant-Chef Parfait Iket, resulted in the seizure of four unlicensed motorcycles, phones, slashed bags, and narcotics. The suspects, aged 19-24, were said to have been committing crimes on motorcycles. According to Adjutant-Chef Iket, the suspects would often commit crimes in the morning and be apprehended at their homes in the evening.
In Obala, the brigade led by Adjutant-Chef Major Jean Marie Koung reacted swiftly to the murder of Pastor Guillaume Ambomo, who was stabbed to death on October 18. Within five days, gendarmes had identified and arrested two suspects using the victim's phone records. One of the suspects was arrested on October 18, just four days after the murder.
The Special Rapid Intervention Teams (ESIR) of Yaoundé's National Police have also launched a high tempo of operations. On October 7, the ESIR tracked down four suspects who had stolen a motorcycle-taxi at knifepoint in Ngousso. The police used the motorcycle's GPS signal to intercept the suspects in Pouma as they attempted to flee to Douala.
Cameroon authorities have urged citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The crackdown on knife-wielding thugs is part of a broader effort to improve security in the country. In recent years, Cameroon has experienced an increase in violent crime, including armed robberies and kidnappings.
The authorities have assured the public that they will continue to work to ensure their safety. The ESIR teams have been equipped with modern technology to help them track down and apprehend suspects. The police and gendarmerie have also increased community outreach efforts to build trust and encourage citizens to report crimes.
Key points
- The crackdown on knife-wielding thugs has resulted in several arrests and the seizure of weapons.
- The authorities have used modern technology, including GPS tracking, to apprehend suspects.
- The efforts are part of a broader strategy to improve security in Cameroon.
