Interpol President Lucas Philippe paid an official visit to Cameroon from October 18 to 21, 2026, to strengthen police cooperation and combat transnational security threats. This was his first visit to Africa since being elected as the head of the organization in November 2025. Upon arrival at Yaoundé-Nsimalen International Airport, Philippe was welcomed by Martin Mbarga Nguele, the Delegate General to the National Security.
On October 19, Philippe was received at the Unity Palace by Ferdinand Ngoh Ngoh, Minister of State and Secretary General of the Presidency of the Republic, on behalf of the Head of State. Discussions focused on police cooperation, terrorism, organized crime, and transnational security threats. The use of new technologies in combating crime and specific security challenges in Cameroon and Central Africa were also addressed.
During his stay, Philippe met with security force officials and visited the National Police Academy in Yaoundé, where he discussed Interpol's missions and the importance of international police cooperation with students. He also visited several Cameroonian security infrastructure, including the National Command Center for Video Surveillance and the National Passport Production Center.
Philippe participated in discussions with police officials from the sub-region on cooperation between Central African police forces. The talks centered on information sharing, action coordination, and combating transnational crime. With 196 member countries, Interpol provides a platform for police cooperation, and Cameroon, hosting the organization's regional office for Central Africa in Yaoundé, plays a significant role.
The visit aimed to enhance relations between Interpol, Cameroonian security services, and its Central African partners. The goal is to translate institutional exchanges into concrete actions, including secure intelligence sharing, training, and coordinated responses to transnational crime. Cameroon radio television reported on the visit, highlighting its significance.
Lucas Philippe's visit reinforced Interpol's commitment to supporting its member countries in addressing security challenges. The organization plays a vital role in facilitating international police cooperation, and its work is crucial in the fight against transnational crime. The visit also underscored the importance of collaboration between Interpol and its member countries.
The outcome of the visit will be closely watched, as it has the potential to strengthen police cooperation between Cameroon, Interpol, and other regional partners. The visit demonstrated Interpol's dedication to enhancing security cooperation and addressing the evolving nature of crime. Key aspects of the visit included a focus on technology, intelligence sharing, and capacity building.
Key points
- Interpol President Lucas Philippe visited Cameroon to strengthen police cooperation and combat transnational security threats.
- The visit aimed to enhance relations between Interpol, Cameroonian security services, and its Central African partners.
- The outcome of the visit has the potential to strengthen police cooperation between Cameroon, Interpol, and other regional partners.
