Cameroon: Interethnic clashes in Far North Region leave at least 16 people dead and over 26 injured as of Dec. 8

Event

Authorities will likely maintain an elevated security posture in the Far North Region over the coming days following recent interethnic clashes between the Arab and Musgum communities in Kousseri. As of Dec. 8, the violence has killed at least 16 people and injured 26 others; the town's market was also reportedly damaged by fire. Authorities in Cameroon's Logone-et-Chari Department had instituted an indefinite nightly ban on motorcycle use between the hours of 18:00 and 06:00 to mitigate potential security risks. Nevertheless, further clashes are likely as the two groups seek to retaliate against the other.

Context

Cameroon's Far North and North regions are vulnerable to interethnic clashes due to competition over limited access to land and other resources. In addition, the region is exposed to cross-border attacks by Nigeria-based Islamist terrorist groups. Militant activity continues to undermine the security environment and reduces the ability of the authorities to prevent interethnic violence.

Advice

Exercise extreme caution if operating in the Far North or North region of Cameroon. Avoid all public gatherings or areas where security forces appear to be deploying. Heed the instructions of local authorities.