August 12, 2019, Muyuka, Fako State, Southern Ambazonia, Cameroon Occupation Forces reportedly abducted, tortured, and executed more than 20 innocent and unarmed civilians, according to eyewitness accounts.

The reported abduction, torture, and killing of over 20 unarmed civilians in Muyuka, Fako State, on August 12, 2019, constitute grave violations of International Humanitarian Law and are classified as War Crimes. The Geneva Conventions, particularly Common Article 3, explicitly prohibit acts of violence to life and person, including murder, cruel treatment, and torture, against individuals who are not actively participating in hostilities.

The civilians in question, being unarmed and uninvolved in combat, were entitled to full protection under these laws. Their deliberate targeting demonstrates a blatant disregard for the principle of distinction, a cornerstone of international humanitarian law that obligates parties in a conflict to differentiate between combatants and civilians.

Torture, as alleged in this incident, is universally condemned under the United Nations Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman, or Degrading Treatment or Punishment. Cameroon, as a state party to this convention, is obligated to prevent and punish acts of torture under any circumstances, including during armed conflicts.

The use of torture in this case not only inflicted severe physical and psychological suffering on the victims but also serves as an instrument of intimidation and terror against the broader civilian population. Such actions amount to cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, which is categorically prohibited under international law.

The abduction of civilians further constitutes a violation of the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Enforced disappearances create a climate of fear and undermine the fabric of the affected communities, violating the victims’ right to liberty and security.

Additionally, the large-scale and systematic nature of these acts suggest a deliberate campaign to target civilians, which could qualify them as Crimes Against Humanity under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.

Eyewitness testimonies provide critical evidence for documenting these atrocities and pursuing accountability. International or domestic mechanisms must investigate and prosecute these violations to ensure justice for the victims and uphold the rule of law. Addressing these War Crimes is essential for preventing further violations and reinforcing global norms protecting civilians in armed conflicts.

GENOCIDE IN AMBAZONIA COMMITED BY LRC