Douala, Cameroon’s Economic Metropolis, Grapples with Rising Violence

Douala, Cameroon’s economic hub, is facing a surge in violence, fueled by groups of young people known as “microbes”.

On the night of September 20, 2024, these attackers wreaked havoc in the neighborhoods of Bonapriso and Bali, resulting in the tragic death of a man who was stabbed. This horrific act serves as a stark reminder of the escalating violence that plagues the city, leaving residents and local authorities increasingly fearful.

Government Response to the Crisis

In response to this alarming situation, the governor of the Littoral, Samuel Dieudonné Ivaha Diboua, addressed the press on September 24. “We have instructed subordinate officers to coordinate operations in their sectors,” he declared, emphasizing the need for close cooperation between administrative authorities and law enforcement. The governor announced that eight of the 17 attackers involved in this latest incident have already been apprehended, and the search continues.

Citizen Vigilance and Safety Precautions

Samuel Dieudonné Ivaha Diboua stressed the importance of citizen vigilance, urging the population to report any suspicious activity. “In any city, precautionary measures must be taken,” he emphasized. His advice is clear: avoid leaving valuable objects visible in vehicles, use common sense, and refrain from displaying oneself in a provocative manner. “Safety begins with yourself,” he added, in a firm yet reassuring tone.

Addressing Rumors and Reassuring the Public

The governor also sought to dispel rumors that Douala had become unviable, stating that this image was unfounded. “There will always be force with the law,” he insisted, while warning those who might be tempted to support these criminals: “They will be caught by their actions and by the law.”

The “Microbes” Phenomenon: A Persistent Threat

The phenomenon of “microbes,” which emerged in 2020, is not new to the city. This group consists of young people between the ages of 12 and 19, often armed with machetes and knives, terrorizing residents, attacking people, robbing businesses, and committing home robberies. Despite several operations carried out by the gendarmerie forces, the situation persists.