Cameroon: Suicide bombing in Kerawa (Far North region) Dec. 11

Event

A suspected Boko Haram suicide bomber detonated an explosive device near a mosque in Kerawa (Far North region) on Monday, December 11. Two civilians along with the assailant were killed. Heightened security measures are expected in the coming days in response to the attack.

Context

The Far North region of Cameroon, especially areas along the border with Nigeria, regularly experiences attacks attributed to Boko Haram militants. While Boko Haram's main stronghold is in Nigeria, the group has been carrying out attacks in neighboring Cameroon since 2013 and the group's presence in Far North dates back to at least 2011. On a related note, Far North is the poorest region in the country and its history of marginalization has also resulted in high levels of organized and petty crime - including cross-border smuggling - and associated violence.

Advice

Individuals present in Cameroon are advised to limit time in areas deemed particularly likely to be targeted in a terrorist attack (crowded markets, etc.) and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities.

Some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to the Far North region as well as other areas bordering Nigeria, Chad, and the Central African Republic; travel to these areas should only be considered with appropriate security protocols in place.