Anglophone Crisis:

Kidnapping for Ransom Rocks Boyo Division

Forces of law and order in Boyo Division of the North West region have reportedly launched a man hunt to unmask some unknown individuals believed to be members of the separatist group who have recently engaged in a kidnapping spree for ransom of municipal councilors.

            On the night of 28 March 2018   Councilor Bangha Mercy Neng of Muloin council area was kidnapped. She was only released at about 11am on Friday March 30, 2018 after her husband was able to secure the FCFA 1.5 million ransom requested by her kidnappers.

            Few hours later, Councilor Mawein Lawrence of Bobong council area was whisked off from his residence at about 1:30pm by yet unknown men. At press time no demands had been made by the kidnappers yet. 

            These unfortunate happenings have caused Councilors of Njinikom council in Boyo and those of other divisions to live in total fear especially after most of them braved threats from these fighters and massively voted at the just ended senatorial elections.

            Before the elections, these separatist fighters had sent warnings to municipal councilors admonishing them to boycott the 2018 senatorial polls or face consequences.

            Since the escalation of the crisis that have rocked the North West and South West regions of the country, there has been sporadic kidnappings of government officials but the kidnap for ransom is a new tactic which has been devised by the separatist fighters.

            It should be recalled that the Divisional Officer for Batibo sub division, Momo division of the North West Region Namata Joseph Diteng was kidnapped by yet to be identified gun men at the Batibo ceremonial ground Stand On February 11, 2018 at about 8am as he was preparing for youth day celebrations.

            The Regional Delegate of Social Affairs for the North West, Animbom Aaron Akiambom was kidnapped alongside his driver while on a burial to Batibo on Saturday Feb. 23, 2018.  His car was later found burnt to ashes and the driver released. Despite search operations by forces of law and other, these officials are yet to be seen.