SECURITY HEIGHTENED AFTER SUICIDE ATTACK KILLS 13 IN NORTHERN CAMEROON

“We have intensified patrols and continue our manhunt for suspected Islamic insurgents. I can confirm that 13 people died and more than five others sustained injuries one, very seriously. 

It is a difficult situation but we are up to the task,” a top security source working with the 4^th Military Combined Region, said January 13, hours after a suicide bomber detonated explosives in the Kouyape area, Mayo-Sava Division in Far North Region of Cameroon.

Soldier Watching Over Cameroon

The security source said there are fears the death toll may rise. “We cannot rule out the fact that the seriously injured survivor could die. Remember that after the explosion people rushed left and right and others sustain injuries during such stampede. 

The government has taken measures to ensure all the victims are treated, and the rest of the inhabitants remain protected,” our source added.

No security or government official could explain how the suicide attack could be possible in a region which has been under red alert for almost three years.

French Moulin Fournier Family : Former Boko Haram Hostages

 It is said that a suicide bomber who was not immediately identified detonated explosives as moslem faithful gathered for prayers in a mosque in the Kouyape locality in the early hours of January 13.

No one or has claimed responsibility for the attacks although security forces are pointing accusing fingers at the Islamic Boko Haram group that has been attacking Cameroonian  military positions and taking hostages.

Other reports indicated that security forces had on January 12 in the Minawao refugee camp arrested four suspected Boko Haram militants believed to be those  supplying them fuel.  The camp is hosting more than 45,000 Nigerian refugees fleeing the fighting and Boko Harama attacks in the North of Nigeria.

Some security sources said they have not given up the fight against Boko Haram militants. “If we were sleeping  those Boko Haram rascals would have already entered and taken control of part of our territory. The battle is every day and we would never surrender. 

We just appreciate the collaboration we receive from locals who denounce suspects,”a soldier retorted, with the Governor of the Far North  Midjiyawa Bakary calling for vigilance. 

Midjiyawa Bakary: Far North Governor

Amnesty International in a December 2015 report said since Boko H increased its attack on Cameroon; some 400 civilians have been killed as they continue their criminal activities in Nigeria, Chad, and Niger.

The US State Department in a travel alert considered Cameroon as a risky destination for its citizens especially the Northern Regions of the country.