April 1, 2019, Mbaw, Donga Mantung State, Northern Ambazonia, Cameroonian Occupation Forces reportedly abducted, tortured, and killed innocent civilians while also burning down houses in the community. Eyewitnesses recounted that more than 15 youths, including women, were killed during the incident.

The events reported in Mbaw on April 1, 2019, constitute grave violations of International Humanitarian Law and are classified as War Crimes. The alleged abduction, torture, execution of civilians, and burning of houses represent serious breaches of the Geneva Conventions and customary international law, which govern the conduct of parties in armed conflicts.

The systematic targeting of civilians, as described, directly violates Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions, which prohibits violence to life and person, including murder, torture, and cruel treatment, against individuals not actively participating in hostilities. Civilians, especially non-combatants such as youths and women, are entitled to protection under these laws.

The deliberate killing of over 15 individuals, as recounted by eyewitnesses, reflects an utter disregard for this protection and the principles of humanity.

The destruction of civilian homes in Mbaw further exacerbates the gravity of the crime. Under Article 53 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, the destruction of private property belonging to civilians is prohibited unless absolutely necessary for military operations.

The reported burning of homes not only violates these provisions but also aims to displace and intimidate the local population, amounting to collective punishment—a practice strictly forbidden under international humanitarian law.

The use of torture, as alleged, constitutes a violation of the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, to which Cameroon is a party. Torture inflicts severe physical and psychological suffering and is recognized as one of the most egregious Crimes against human dignity. When employed as part of a deliberate strategy in armed conflict, it is classified as a war crime under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC).

Additionally, the targeting of women, often considered more vulnerable in conflict zones, highlights the violation of specific protections afforded under international law, including the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

Independent investigations are critical to verifying these allegations, ensuring accountability for the perpetrators, and delivering justice for the victims. The international community must prioritize adherence to the rule of law to prevent further atrocities and protect civilians in conflict zones.

GENOCIDE IN AMBAZONIA