April 17, 2022, Bamenda, Mezam State, Ambazonia: The killing of civilians by Cameroonian Occupational Forces conducted a raid targeting suspected hideouts of Ambazonian fighters. During the operation, two civilians lost their lives, caught in the crossfire as the military sought to establish control over the area. This tragic incident underscores the perilous environment civilians face amid ongoing war in Ambazonia.

The killing of civilians by Cameroon Occupational Forces during this operation raises serious concerns under International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The Geneva Conventions, which form the foundation of International Humanitarian Law explicitly prohibit deliberate attacks on civilians.The extrajudicial killings, and the use of disproportionate force that results in unnecessary harm to non-combatants in wa zones. Incidents like these are considered War Crime when they involve the intentional targeting of civilians, actions carried out with reckless disregard for civilian life, or negligence leading to unnecessary loss of life.

The Cameroonian Occupational Forces actions in Bamenda, have violated these international protections. If the civilians were killed without due justification or as a result of indiscriminate force, these acts is amount to a War Crime. The central issue lies in whether the military knowingly disregarded civilian safety or failed to take adequate precautions to avoid harm to innocent lives during their operation

This incident is part of a troubling pattern observed in the ongoing war in Ambazonia, where civilians frequently find themselves caught between military operations and Ambazonia activities. The inability to distinguish between combatants and non-combatants in such operations not only results in unnecessary civilian casualties. It also erodes trust in state forces and intensifies grievances within affected communities.

Accountability is crucial to addressing such violations and preventing future incidents. The International Community has called for investigations into similar events to determine whether the actions of the Cameroonian military violated International Humanitarian standards. Upholding these laws is essential to ensuring the protection of civilians and maintaining a measure of humanity in times of war.

The killing of these civilians in Bamenda highlight the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Ambazonia. Efforts to reduce violence and prioritize the safety of non-combatants must take precedence in any approach to ending the war. Without a commitment to accountability and adherence to International Laws, the cycle of violence and suffering is likely to continue. Further, devastating communities across in Ambazonia.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the cost of war borne by innocent civilians. The protection of civilian lives must remain a cornerstone of any military strategy, particularly in war already destabilized by ongoing war.