April 19, 2019, Bamenda, Mezam State, Northern Ambazonia, Cameroon Occupation Forces reportedly abducted, tortured, burned, and executed innocent and unarmed civilians, including women. Eyewitnesses further reported that over 80 homes were burned down by the Forces.

The reported actions of Cameroon Occupation Forces on April 19, 2019, in Bamenda constitute grave breaches of International Humanitarian Law and are classified as War Crimes. The abduction, torture, execution, and burning of civilians, including women, violate the Geneva Conventions, particularly Common Article 3, which prohibits acts of violence to life and person, cruel treatment, and outrages upon personal dignity against those not actively participating in hostilities. These deliberate and indiscriminate acts against civilians underscore a failure to uphold the fundamental principles of distinction and proportionality in armed conflict.

The destruction of over 80 homes is a direct violation of Article 53 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which prohibits the destruction of civilian property unless absolutely required for military necessity. The burning of civilian homes not only violates international law but also exacerbates the suffering of the affected population, rendering them homeless and depriving them of basic shelter and security. Such acts constitute collective punishment, which is explicitly forbidden under international humanitarian law.

The targeting of women in this incident is particularly egregious, as women are afforded special protections under the Geneva Conventions and other international legal instruments, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The actions described reflect a disregard for these protections and highlight the vulnerability of women in conflict settings.

Torture is universally condemned under the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The use of torture, coupled with the execution and burning of civilians, reflects a systematic campaign of terror and intimidation. These actions may also amount to crimes against humanity under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court if they are part of a widespread or systematic attack on the civilian population.

Eyewitness accounts are vital for documenting these atrocities and holding perpetrators accountable. Independent investigations by international organizations and judicial bodies are essential to establish the facts, deliver justice, and deter future violations. Addressing these crimes is critical to restoring human dignity, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring the protection of civilians in armed conflict zones.

GENOCIDE IN AMBAZONIA