In the heart of Mauritania's capital, a peculiar individual has garnered attention for his unorthodox methods of managing traffic and providing security. Bakar, a large and imposing figure, wields a heavy club to direct vehicles and maintain order at the busy Carrefour Madrid intersection. Despite the presence of police officers, Bakar's authoritative demeanor has earned him a reputation as a makeshift traffic controller. His influence extends beyond traffic management, as local shops have engaged him as a nighttime security guard.
Bakar's background reveals a complex individual with a history of trauma and contrasting personas. A native of R'kiz, he worked as a police officer before suffering a traumatic brain injury in a 1991 accident on the Nouakchott-Akjoujt highway. This incident left him with lasting psychological issues. However, those who know him describe Bakar as having a dual personality – violent and menacing, yet capable of composing high-quality poetry and participating in music sessions with the renowned diva Garmi.
Bakar's employment history includes stints as a security guard at the El Islah private school and various local shops. While his imposing presence can be intimidating, it has also proven effective in deterring potential threats. Unfortunately, his tenure at the school was cut short after he nearly injured tardy students. This incident highlights the challenges of managing Bakar's volatile personality.
In a separate incident, a brazen robbery occurred at a local money transfer agency. Three armed men stormed the premises, overpowering the security guard and making off with a substantial sum of money. The guard, who sustained injuries during the altercation, received medical attention and is under observation. Authorities have launched an investigation, but the perpetrators remain at large.
This recent robbery is not an isolated incident, as money transfer agencies in Mauritania have been targeted in the past. A few years ago, a gang kidnapped a senior official from an agency in El Mina, subjecting him to physical harm and forcing him to surrender keys to the safe. The gang then proceeded to break into the agency, tamper with security cameras, and steal valuables.
The small town of Gouerra, located near Nouadhibou, boasts a rich history dating back to the 1960s. This former Spanish fishing village thrived as a commercial hub, with goods being smuggled into Cansado and eventually distributed throughout Nouadhibou. The town's success was partly attributed to its prized Canarian goats, which were renowned for their high milk production and ability to give birth to multiple kids.
The legacy of Gouerra's celebrated goats lives on through stories of their exceptional qualities. One notable example is a goat affectionately known as "Gourgour," which was brought to Mederdra and became an integral part of a local family's life. The goat's impressive milk production and affectionate nature endeared it to the family, and its passing in 1977 was deeply mourned.
Key points
- Bakar's complex personality and unorthodox methods have made him a recognizable figure in Mauritania's capital.
- A recent robbery at a money transfer agency has prompted an investigation and raised concerns about security in the region.
- The town of Gouerra's history highlights the significance of its prized Canarian goats and their lasting impact on local communities.
