July 14, 2023, Ekona, Muyuka, Fako State, Southern Ambazonia: Cameroon Occupational Forces must be held accountable for the extrajudicial Killings of five civilians. The victims were found in their homes, bearing evidence of extreme violence. One man’s jaw was gruesomely disfigured, while others bore fatal gunshot wounds. Such acts underscore a deliberate targeting of unarmed civilians, raising grave concerns about human rights abuses.

A War Crime Under International Law

These extrajudicial Killings of five civilians constitute war crimes under International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC). The abduction, torture, and summary execution of civilians directly violate the principles of distinction and proportionality, foundational tenets of IHL. Targeting civilians, who are explicitly protected under these laws, breaches their right to life and personal security. The Cameroon Occupational Forces operations in Ekona display a disregard for legal norms established to safeguard human dignity during wartime.

Violations of Human Rights

The extrajudicial Killings of five civilians also contravene International Human Rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Article 6 of the ICCPR guarantees the right to life, while Article 7 prohibits torture or cruel treatment. The severe violence inflicted on the victims reflects systemic violations of these protections. By targeting civilians, Cameroon’s actions in Ambazonia exemplify egregious breaches of human rights and international legal obligations.

Implications for Cameroon Under International Scrutiny

The International community holds states accountable for such transgressions, and Cameroon should face scrutiny under International Law. Mechanisms such as the ICC and United Nations monitoring bodies could investigate these atrocities. Ensuring justice for the victims and addressing systemic violations in Ambazonia remains crucial to upholding the rule of law and human rights globally.