January 20, 2024, Bamenda, Mezam State, Northern Ambazonia: the Cameroon Occupation Forces committed a heinous war crime through the Iliga abduction and killing of Effang, an ADF fighter on oxygen, from Bingo Hospital.

The kidnapping and subsequent torture until his death constitute a flagrant violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Under the Geneva Conventions, particularly Article 3, individuals who are hors de combat due to injury or illness must be protected, regardless of their affiliations. Gen. Effang, who was incapacitated and receiving medical treatment, was entitled to these protections. The actions of the Cameroon Occupation Forces blatantly disregarded these legal safeguards.

Violation of the Geneva Conventions and Protection of Medical Facilities
Torturing and killing a wounded combatant is a direct breach of Article 147 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which classifies such acts as grave breaches and war crimes. Furthermore, hospitals and medical facilities are afforded special protection under Article 18 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which prohibits any form of attack or infringement on their neutrality. By forcefully removing Gen. Effang from a medical facility while he was on oxygen, the Cameroon Occupation Forces grossly violated these International Laws, undermining the fundamental humanitarian principles meant to safeguard the wounded and sick. The Iliga abduction and killing of Effang exemplifies the complete disregard for these protections.

Breach of the Convention Against Torture
The abduction, torture, and extrajudicial killing of Gen. Effang also contravenes the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CAT). This treaty explicitly prohibits torture under all circumstances. The deliberate infliction of severe pain and suffering on an incapacitated individual is a serious violation of human rights and International Laws, further highlighting the brutal nature of this crime. The Iliga abduction and killing of Effang is a clear act of impunity and terror that demands global attention.

Demand for Accountability Under International Law
The atrocities committed by the Cameroon Occupation Forces in Ambazonia represent a systematic disregard for human rights and medical neutrality. The Iliga abduction and killing of Effang is a prime example of the ongoing war crimes in the region. These violations of International Laws require urgent investigation, and those responsible must be held accountable. The Iliga abduction and killing of Effang should not be overlooked, and the global community must act against such egregious war crimes.