Cameroon: Explosion in Bamenda September 21

Event

An improvised explosive device (IED) detonated in Bamenda, capital of Northwest region, on Thursday, September 21. The bomb exploded at 08:50 (local time) near Hospital Roundabout, wounding three police officers. Although no group or individual has claimed responsibility for the blast, this bombing is likely linked to persisting tensions in the region between the Francophone and Anglophone communities. Following the attack, the US Embassy in Yaounde warned that protests may occur in Bamenda in the coming days. The US has suspended all official travel to Bamenda until Tuesday, October 3, as a precaution.

Context

A similar attack occurred on Saturday, September 16, when two IEDs exploded in the same area of Bamenda.

Tensions between English- and French-speaking communities have risen considerably in recent months in Cameroon. English-speaking lawyers and teachers supported by Anglophone protesters have carried out a number of demonstrations that have paralyzed the Northwest and Southwest regions since November 2016; schools have been closed in the English-speaking regions since that date. In mid-August, six English-speaking schools were set on fire. Security forces have brutally cracked down on rallies, killing and arresting hundreds. President Paul Biya has announced reforms that favor Anglophone representation in government and education, but has stated that he will not engage in dialogue that threatens national unity.

Advice

Individuals in Cameroon are advised to monitor the situation, to heed official directives by local authorities or their home government (including travel restrictions), and avoid any associated protests.