April 8, 2024, Kwanso, Bui, State, Northern Ambazonia: CAMEROON OCCUPATION FORCES have launched a brutal attack on the village of Kwanso, Bui, burning down homes and destroying the livelihoods of innocent, unarmed civilians. The Bui people are in immense suffering, with many fleeing into the bushes, where they remain without food or shelter. Such actions constitute a blatant war crime, as the deliberate destruction of homes and properties is strictly prohibited under INTERNATIONAL humanitarian LAWS.

Violation of the Fourth Geneva Convention
According to Article 53 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, it is illegal for occupying forces to destroy civilian property unless absolutely necessary for military operations. The widespread destruction of homes and properties and the forced displacement of civilians in Kwanso serve no legitimate military purpose, making these actions a direct violation of INTERNATIONAL LAWS. The destruction has left families homeless and vulnerable, worsening the humanitarian crisis in Ambazonia.

Rome Statute and War Crimes
Under Article 8 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, the “extensive destruction and appropriation of property, not justified by military necessity and carried out unlawfully and wantonly,” is classified as a war crime. The CAMEROON OCCUPATION FORCES’ actions in Kwanso fit this definition, as they have deliberately set homes ablaze and displaced innocent civilians without justification. These acts not only violate international regulations but also exemplify the targeted oppression of the Ambazonian people through the destruction of homes and properties.

Human Rights Violations and Civilian Suffering
Beyond property destruction, the attack on Kwanso represents a gross violation of human rights. The forced displacement of civilians, depriving them of food, shelter, and security, is a direct assault on their fundamental rights. INTERNATIONAL LAWS, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, recognize the right to life, security, and adequate living conditions. By violating these principles, CAMEROON OCCUPATION FORCES demonstrate a complete disregard for human dignity through the destruction of homes and properties.

Call for Immediate Intervention

The ongoing atrocities in Kwanso demand urgent international attention. Humanitarian organizations and global authorities must act swiftly to hold CAMEROON OCCUPATION FORCES accountable for their crimes. If action is not taken, the suffering of the Ambazonian people will only escalate, and further destruction of homes and properties will continue unchecked.