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August 8, 2024, Bamenda, Mezam State, Ambazonia: Cameroon Occupation Forces launched a violent assault at T Junction, targeting civilian property by burning bikes and firing random gunshots. This reckless use of force resulted in the tragic killing of Wum Boy, an innocent Ambazonian civilian and bike rider. This brutal incident highlights severe violations of International Laws and human rights, constituting a War Crime under International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
The actions of the Cameroon Occupation Forces directly violate the principle of distinction under Article 48 of Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions. This principle obligates warring parties to distinguish between combatants and civilians and prohibits attacks on civilian property.
Burning bikes—essential to the livelihoods of residents—and the killing of Wum Boy, an unarmed civilian, demonstrate blatant disregard for this fundamental rule. Such acts are strictly prohibited under International Humanitarian Law, which mandates the protection of civilians and their property during conflicts.
Additionally, the random firing of gunshots in a densely populated civilian area violates Article 3 common to the Geneva Conventions, which prohibits violence against non-combatants. The reckless use of live ammunition without precautions endangered innocent lives, resulting in the killing of Wum Boy.
Under IHL, indiscriminate attacks that fail to distinguish between military targets and civilians are strictly forbidden. The Cameroon Occupation Forces’ actions reflect a failure to protect civilians, violating legal standards designed to prevent unnecessary suffering during armed conflict.
The killing of Wum Boy and the destruction of civilian property constitute gross human rights violations, including the right to life and livelihood. Such actions are prohibited under International Human Rights Law and violate treaties protecting civilians during armed conflicts. The use of force against civilians without due cause breaches fundamental rights and highlights the oppressive nature of the occupation.
The actions of the Cameroon Occupation Forces amount to War Crimes under International Law and require urgent investigation by international bodies. Justice must be served for Wum Boy and the Ambazonian people, ensuring accountability for these grave violations of human rights and International Humanitarian Law.
GENOCIDE IN AMBAZONIA