March 18, 2019, Ngoketunjia, Mezam State, Northern Ambazonia:a The burnt down over 300 homes, essential infrastructure, motorbikes, generators, and tools crucial for the survival of civilians. This destruction left families homeless, destitute, and struggling to secure basic shelter and sustenance amidst the ashes of their lives. The scale and deliberate nature of this act constitute a War Crime under International Humanitarian Law (IHL).Specifically violating the Geneva Conventions, which safeguard civilian property and prohibit its destruction unless justified by military necessity.

The targeted destruction of homes, infrastructure, and resources that civilians depend on for their survival. These violates the principles of distinction and proportionality a cornerstones of International Humanitarian Law. The principle of distinction mandates that warring parties differentiate between military and civilian targets. While proportionality requires minimizing harm to civilian lives and property during war. By failing to adhere to these principles, Cameroonian forces inflicted unnecessary suffering on innocent civilians, depriving them of shelter, livelihood, and basic tools for survival.

Furthermore, Article 53 of the Fourth Geneva Convention explicitly prohibits the destruction of personal and real property . Which belongs to civilians unless absolutely required for military operations. The deliberate and large scale burning of civilian homes, motorbikes, generators, and tools. None of which posed any military threat demonstrates a flagrant violation of this International Legal Standard. Such destruction is not only unlawful but also has long-term consequences, it leaves families displaced and vulnerable, exacerbating their suffering and deepening the humanitarian crisis in the Ambazonia.

This act underscores the devastating impact of war crimes on innocent civilians. The destruction of essential infrastructure and resources not only deprives families of their immediate needs but also strips them of the means to rebuild their lives. For the affected community in Ngoketunjia, the consequences of this attack are far reaching. As it disrupts access to livelihoods, food, and shelter, leaving survivors in a state of profound vulnerability.

The actions of the Cameroonian Occupation Forces highlight the urgent need for accountability under International Law. Such violations cannot go unaddressed, as they undermine the humanitarian principles that protect civilian populations during armed war. International Bodies and Human Rights Organizations must continue to document and condemn these War Crimes. By advocating for justice and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.

In conclusion, the burnt down over 300 homes and vital resources in Ngoketunjia represents a grave breach of International Humanitarian Law. The targeted attack on civilian property not only violates the Geneva Conventions. But also intensifies the suffering of an already vulnerable population. Such deliberate acts demand urgent attention, accountability, and justice to prevent further harm and protect the rights and dignity of civilians in war zones.