YAOUNDE, Nov. 30 (Xinhua) — Two soldiers lost their lives on Sunday when an explosion struck in Cameroon’s conflict-affected English-speaking Northwest Region. Local security sources reported that the blast targeted a military patrol in the area known for ongoing clashes between government forces and separatist fighters.
According to officials, the explosive device was detonated by armed separatist groups operating in the region. The attack occurred near Bamenda, a hotspot of the Anglophone crisis that has persisted since 2017.
Security forces quickly secured the site, while reinforcements were sent to pursue those responsible.
Cameroon’s Northwest and Southwest regions have seen violent confrontations between security forces and separatists seeking independence for what they call “Ambazonia.”
Thousands of civilians have been displaced over the years, with frequent attacks targeting both soldiers and civilians.
“We are taking all necessary steps to track down the perpetrators,” a regional military officer stated after the incident.
Authorities in Yaoundé condemned the attack and reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace in the English-speaking regions. Military operations continue across affected areas despite sporadic separatist resistance.
Author’s summary: Two Cameroonian soldiers were killed by an explosion in the troubled Northwest, as separatist violence persists despite ongoing government security efforts.