On Thursday, September 19, 2024, a devastating blast occurred at Mobile Nkwen, directly opposite the entrance to Cow Street, around 11:00 AM. The explosion, attributed to the detonation of an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), tragically claimed the life of Ms. Chung Juliet, a 30-year-old local vendor, and injured several others, including an eleven-month-old baby. Reports indicate that one of the injured is in critical condition.
Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the blast followed by intense gunfire, heightening fears among shoppers and vendors in the bustling market area.
One of the victims of the blast
Emergency services responded promptly, transporting the injured to nearby medical facilities. The explosion also resulted in the destruction of various food items, further distressing local traders and customers who rely on the market for their livelihoods.
This incident is part of a troubling trend, as commercial areas have increasingly become targets for such attacks where it's most likely to have victims of such unscrupulous actions.
It is noted that in a period of back to school where the North West and South West regions are experiencing an imposed lockdown in a bid to disturb effective school resumption, the local community must be on the alert of awful happenings that that can be life consuming .
The Senior Divisional Officer for Mezam, Simon Emile Mooh, has expressed profound sorrow over the attack in Nkwen, condemning it as a barbaric act against unarmed civilians. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and assured that the government will cover the medical expenses of the injured.
Mezam SDO Reacts
A similar situation of chaos took place in Muea-Buea at about 1pm where gun firing took centre stage, putting the local community under tension fear.
Administrative officials are calling on the communities to cooperate with authorities as investigations into the Bamenda blast continue. They stress the importance of vigilance in these uncertain times and advise all buyam sellams and customers to exercise caution while visiting the market as authorities are expected to provide further updates as more information becomes available.
By
Munya Charles Babila
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