Kidnapping for-Ransom Syndicate, By Cameroon Forces.the Ambazonia Governing Council (AGovC) has unveiled a disturbing network of kidnapping-for-ransom operations run by several small cells linked to the Militaire Camerounaise, a terrorist group comprising multiple military units.
The intelligence gathered by AGovC reveals that this syndicate involves 236 cells spread across 59 chief towns in Ambazonia. These cells are affiliated with various units including Securite Militaire (SEMIL), Bataillon d’Intervention Rapide (BIR), Gendarmerie Nationale, and Délégation Générale de la Sûreté Nationale.
The investigation highlights the involvement of state-sponsored entities in extorting substantial sums of money. Each cell reportedly extorts approximately 650,000 FCFA (around 1,300 US dollars) per month, accumulating to an alarming annual total of nearly 1,840,800,000 FCFA, which is roughly equivalent to 3 million US dollars.
This extensive operation not only underscores the systematic nature of these crimes but also points to a well-organized and deeply entrenched network within the country’s military and security apparatus.
In response to these revelations, the AGovC has called upon the International Community to take immediate and decisive action. The council urges for the imposition of economic sanctions on the Republic of Cameroon and demands a thorough investigation into these egregious violations of human rights.
The exposure of this kidnapping-for-ransom syndicate sheds light on the broader issues of corruption and abuse of power within the Cameroonian military forces. It also raises critical questions about the complicity of state institutions in perpetuating violence and exploitation in Ambazonia.
As the situation develops, the AGovC continues to monitor and document these activities, advocating for increased international awareness and intervention to dismantle this criminal enterprise and restore stability to Ambazonia.