The Center for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA) condemns the military operation carried out at the end of April in the village of Ndzerem-Nyam, in the Bui department.
The organization mentions serious human rights violations and calls for an independent investigation into violence that caused at least fourteen deaths. The debate on the conduct of security operations in the Anglophone regions of Cameroon resurfaces after the events that occurred in Ndzerem-Nyam, in the Jakiri district, Northwest region. In a statement published on May 7, 2026, the Center for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA) accuses the defense forces of carrying out an intervention with deadly consequences during a cultural gathering held on April 26.
According to information relayed by the organization and the Ministry of Defense, the operation targeted separatist fighters affiliated with the self-proclaimed rebel leader “General Capo.” But the human toll raises concern: at least fourteen people were killed, several homes burned, and about thirty motorcycles destroyed.
The CHRDA believes that the circumstances of the intervention raise questions about respect for international humanitarian law, particularly the principles of distinction between civilians and combatants and proportionality in the use of force.
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The NGO calls for the opening of an “independent, transparent, and impartial” investigation and demands prosecutions against those responsible for possible abuses. In a context of ongoing Anglophone crisis, the organization warns that the repetition of civilian losses risks worsening distrust towards institutions and further compromising prospects for peace.
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