Norwegian authorities have taken a significant step in holding leaders accountable for human rights abuses, arresting a key figure in the Ambazonia separatist movement on charges of inciting crimes against humanity in Cameroon’s English-speaking regions.
The suspect, reportedly in his early 50s, was taken into custody on September 24 and appeared before the Oslo District Court the following day.
Chief Prosecutor Anette Berger emphasised that the investigation is still in its initial phase, with several steps remaining to be taken. Berger also highlighted Norway’s commitment to preventing its soil from becoming a haven for individuals implicated in war crimes or crimes against humanity.
Although the suspect’s identity hasn’t been officially disclosed, speculation points to Lucas Ayaba Cho, founder of the Ambazonia Governing Council (AGovC), a separatist faction operating from Norway. Cho has been a vocal advocate for the secession of Cameroon’s two English-speaking regions since 2017, envisioning a breakaway state called Ambazonia.
Cho’s history is marred by controversy, having claimed responsibility for human rights atrocities committed by the Ambazonia Defence Forces (ADF), the armed wing of AGovC. Notably, he justified the public execution of two civilians by ADF fighters in Guzang in October 2023. Additionally, Cho has been linked to inciting attacks against taxi drivers in Bamenda, resulting in the burning of several taxis that resisted an imposed colour change from yellow to blue or white or both.
The Cameroon Government has been seeking Cho’s arrest for years, with pro-government lawyer Nsalai filing multiple bids for his apprehension. This development marks a significant milestone in efforts to bring perpetrators to justice and address the ongoing conflict in Cameroon’s Anglophone regions.
