September 24, 2018, Buea Fako State, Southern Ambazonia: Cameroon occupation forces carried out a violent assault that resulted in the abduction, shooting, and killing of two innocent and unarmed university students. In addition, many others, including young women, were injured during the attack. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos as the forces unleashed indiscriminate violence, targeting defenseless civilians who posed no threat. The lives of these young students, full of promise and potential, were cut short in an act of brutality that has left the community in mourning and fear. The incident highlights a pattern of violence and disregard for civilian life, particularly against the Ambazonian people, in violation of international humanitarian norms.

This egregious act constitutes a War Crime under international law. According to the Geneva Conventions (1949), Common Article 3, violence against individuals not taking an active part in hostilities, including civilians, is strictly prohibited. Specifically, the deliberate targeting, abduction, and killing of unarmed civilians, such as students, violates the principle of distinction, which requires armed forces to distinguish between combatants and civilians. Additionally, Article 8(2)(e)(i) of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) clearly defines war crimes as intentionally directing attacks against civilians who are not directly participating in hostilities. The attack on students and the injuries inflicted on young women constitute grave breaches of international humanitarian law.

Furthermore, the right to life, protected under Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), was blatantly violated. Targeting unarmed university students—individuals who represent the hope for a peaceful and progressive future—demonstrates the disproportionate use of force and highlights the systematic campaign of terror and oppression carried out by the occupation forces. These violations not only result in the loss of innocent lives but also inflict psychological trauma on the survivors and the broader community.

The events of September 24, 2018, underscore the urgent need for justice and accountability under international law. The Cameroon occupation forces must be held responsible for their actions, and the international community must intervene to end impunity, protect civilians, and restore peace in Southern Ambazonia.