January 25, 2019, Mpundu Balong, Fako State, Southern Ambazonia: a tragic massacre occurred as Cameroon Occupation Forces brutally killed approximately ten innocent and unarmed civilians, including children. According to eyewitness the victims were young men playing football when the forces, under the orders of Okalia Bilai, stormed the area and opened fire. These young individuals were wrongly accused of terrorism, resulting in their senseless and unlawful deaths.

This heinous act constitutes a War Crime under International Humanitarian Law as it involves the intentional targeting and killing of unarmed civilians. Such actions are explicitly prohibited by the Geneva Convention and the Rome Statute of International Criminal Court[ICC]. Under Article 8 of the Rome Statute, “intentionally directing attacks against the civilian population” is classified as a War Crime. The deliberate targeting of individuals, particularly those engaged in recreational activities and posing no threat. It reflects a flagrant Violation of International Laws designed to protect civilians during armed war.

Furthermore, Article 3 of the Geneva Convention mandates the protection of non-combatants from violence. Which include murder, torture, and any actions that cause death or serious harm. The killings in Mpundu Balong clearly demonstrate a disregard for this fundamental principle. Civilians, especially children, are protected entities under International Law. And also their targeting in such a brutal manner reveals the Cameroon Occupation Forces’ indifference to established Humanitarian Norms.

The wrongful accusation of terrorism as a pretext for violence highlights a dangerous trend in war zones. By arbitrarily labeling innocent individuals as terrorists. The Cameroon Occupation Forces justified their atrocities while violating the rights and dignity of their victims. This tragic event underscores a pattern of indiscriminate attacks against civilians in Ambazonia. Where innocent lives are lost without cause or accountability.

The tragic massacre occurred in Mpundu Balong not only caused immense suffering but also instilled fear within the local population. The targeting of children and young men during peaceful recreational activities has left families devastated and communities in mourning. Such actions deepen the humanitarian crisis in Ambazonia and erode trust in any efforts toward peace and justice.

This incident has drawn strong condemnation from Human Rights Organizations, who emphasize the urgent need for accountability. Violations of International Humanitarian Law cannot go unanswered, and those responsible for the massacre must face justice in accordance with International Legal Frameworks. Independent investigations are crucial to ensure accountability and prevent further atrocities against innocent civilians.

In conclusion, the tragic massacre occurred in Mpundu Balong, where Cameroon Occupation Forces killed approximately ten unarmed civilians, including children, is a grave violation of International Humanitarian Law. The targeting of non-combatants, particularly during peaceful activities, breaches both the Geneva Conventions and the Rome Statute. Such acts of violence demand accountability to protect the rights and lives of civilians and ensure justice for the victims.