February 2, 2019, Manyu State, Southern Ambazonia, Cameroon Occupation Forces launched a violent operation targeting civilians who had sought refuge in a hideout to escape ongoing military aggression. Eyewitnesses recount the harrowing events in which soldiers stormed the area, forcibly abducting innocent individuals, including women and children.

Those captured were subjected to brutal torture, enduring severe beatings, psychological torment, and other inhumane acts. The victims, who were unarmed and posed no threat, were later executed in cold blood.

Their lifeless bodies were abandoned, serving as a grim testament to the relentless violence inflicted upon the civilian population. The massacre not only resulted in the tragic loss of life but also instilled deep fear and trauma within the affected communities. Families were torn apart, and survivors now live under the constant threat of similar atrocities being repeated by occupying forces.

This act constitutes a War Crime under international law, as it involves the deliberate targeting of civilians in a conflict zone. Under Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions (1949), the murder, mutilation, torture, and cruel treatment of non-combatants are strictly prohibited.

The Fourth Geneva Convention further mandates the protection of civilians, including women and children, from violence, coercion, and inhumane treatment. Article 27 of this convention explicitly states that civilians must be safeguarded and treated with dignity at all times. The abduction, torture, and execution of these individuals violate these fundamental principles of humanitarian law.

Furthermore, Article 8 of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) classifies willful killing, torture, and inhumane treatment of civilians as War Crimes. The systematic targeting of women and children further escalates this atrocity, as it constitutes a grave breach of international law and reflects a deliberate intent to instill terror within the civilian population. Additionally, these crimes may also qualify as crimes against humanity under Article 7 of the Rome Statute, as they were part of a widespread attack against a defenseless community.

The international community must not turn a blind eye to these egregious violations. There is an urgent need for independent investigations, accountability, and justice for the victims and their families. The perpetrators of these heinous acts must be held responsible to prevent further crimes and to uphold the principles of Human Rights and International Law.

A MUST WATCH GENOCIDE IN AMBAZONIA