December 12, 2021, Mbegwi, Momo State, Northern Ambazonia: Cameroon Occupation Forces abducted, tortured, killed, and burned down houses of innocent civilians, destroying their homes and livelihoods. The events that took place in Mbegwi, Momo State, on December 12, 2021, constitute grave violations of International Humanitarian Law and Human rights law.

The abduction, torture, and killing of innocent civilians violate Common Article 3 of the Geneva Conventions (1949), which explicitly prohibits violence against civilians, including murder, cruel treatment, and torture.

These actions also breach Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), which guarantees the right to life and protection from arbitrary executions. Additionally, the systematic destruction of civilian homes and livelihoods is a violation of Article 53 of the Fourth Geneva Convention, which forbids the destruction of property belonging to civilians unless absolutely necessary for military operations.

The deliberate targeting of homes and means of survival also falls under Article 8(2)(b)(ii) of the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which classifies intentionally directing attacks against civilian properties as a war crime. Given the scale and severity of these acts, they could also be categorized as crimes against humanity under Article 7 of the Rome Statute, particularly when committed as part of a widespread or systematic attack on a civilian population.

Furthermore, the burning of civilian homes and destruction of livelihoods could amount to acts of collective punishment, which is strictly prohibited under international law. The Geneva Conventions prohibit reprisals against civilian populations in conflict situations, and such actions demonstrate a clear disregard for the principles of distinction and proportionality under the laws of War.

The attacks also violate the UN Basic Principles and Guidelines on the Right to a Remedy and Reparation, which emphasize the right of victims to justice, accountability, and reparations for their losses. These violations demand an immediate independent international investigation, intervention from the international community, and accountability for the perpetrators.

The Cameroonian authorities and military leaders responsible for these war crimes must face justice before an international tribunal. The continued failure to hold those responsible accountable only enables further human rights abuses and reinforces a culture of impunity. It is imperative that humanitarian organizations, international courts, and global leaders take decisive action to prevent further atrocities and ensure justice for the victims of these heinous Crimes.

GENOCIDE IN AMBAZONIA