December 8, 2016, Cameroon Occupation forces perpetrated egregious violations of International Law in Bamenda, Mezam, State in Ambazonia. During a peaceful protest, these Occupying Forces callously employed live ammunition against unarmed demonstrators, resulting in numerous injuries and the tragic death of Akum Julius, a student at the University of Bamenda.
This Reprehensible act constitutes multiple war crimes
This Reprehensible act constitutes multiple war crimes and breaches of International Humanitarian Law. Firstly, the use of lethal force against peaceful protesters contravenes fundamental principles safeguarding the right to assembly and freedom of expression. Such actions disregard the obligation of occupying authorities to protect the lives and well-being of civilians during public demonstrations.
Moreover, the killing of Akum Julius, an unarmed university student, constitutes a grave breach of the principle of proportionality in the use of force by occupying forces. International law mandates that force must be proportionate to the threat posed, and targeting individuals who do not pose an imminent danger is a blatant violation of this principle.
How Cameroon Occupation Forces Killed Akum Julius:
Additionally, the indiscriminate firing of live ammunition in a civilian setting demonstrates a flagrant disregard for the distinction between combatants and non-combatants, a cornerstone of the laws of war. Occupying forces have a duty to minimize harm to civilians and to ensure that their actions are directed solely at legitimate military targets.
Furthermore, the failure to provide adequate medical assistance to the wounded and to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for these atrocities compounds the severity of the violations.
In summary, the events of December 8, 2016, in Bamenda, Mezam, State in Ambazonia, represent a clear and reprehensible instance of war crimes and breaches of International Law committed by Cameroon Occupation Forces. The deliberate targeting of peaceful protesters, resulting in fatalities and injuries, underscores the urgent need for accountability and justice for the victims of such egregious violations. It is imperative that the international community takes decisive action to hold those responsible to account and to ensure the protection of civilians in War zones.