March 1, 2019, Mbaw , Bamenda, Mezam State Northern Ambazonia: The indiscriminate violence on civilians, killing everyone in sight, including women, children, and the elderly by Cameroon Occupational Forces. The military forces also set fire to houses and destroyed livestock essential for the villagers’ survival. This horrific event constitutes a blatant violation of International Humanitarian Law. Particularly the Geneva Conventions, which expressly prohibit attacks targeting civilians and civilian objects. The deliberate killing of non-combatants, including vulnerable individuals. It flagrantly breaches the principle of distinction, a cornerstone of the laws of armed war that mandates the protection of civilians in times of war.

Moreover, the destruction of homes and essential resources such as livestock directly contravenes Article 54 of Additional Protocol I to the Geneva Conventions. This provision forbids any actions aimed at depriving civilians of objects indispensable for their survival, including food supplies and shelters. The burning of homes and slaughter of livestock left the community in a state of utter devastation. Compounding the physical and psychological trauma inflicted on the victims and survivors. Such acts not only undermine the principles of humanity and proportionality but also highlight the systematic disregard for international norms designed to protect civilian populations during armed war.

The indiscriminate violence committed by the Cameroonian Occupation Forces in Mbaw Village .It also meet the definition of a War Crime under the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC). Intentionally directing attacks against civilians and civilian property is explicitly prohibited under the Statute. These egregious actions reflect a broader pattern of deliberate violence and oppression intended to instill terror in the civilian population. The targeting of non-combatants, combined with the destruction of vital resources. It also exacerbates the suffering of innocent people and underscores the urgent need for accountability and justice under International Law.

This incident further highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing war in Ambazonia. Where communities are subjected to acts of violence and destruction by Cameroonian Occupational Forces. The international community must respond decisively to such violations by investigating and prosecuting those responsible for these crimes. It also ensure to adherence to the principles of International Humanitarian Law are critical to protecting civilian populations and preventing further atrocities in Ambazonia.