Bafoussam: gov’t destroys cannabis, counterfeit medications worth 850MFCFA

The Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji who coordinated the exercise, said the destruction was carried out following an instruction from the Head of State. He said it is aimed to prevent redistribution.

The Ministry of Territorial Administration and authorities in Bafoussam II in the West Region have burned a significant quantity of seized marijuana and counterfeit medications valued at an estimated 850 million FCFA. The destruction operation was overseen by the Minister of Territorial Administration, Paul Atanga Nji. Speaking shortly after the exercise, the member of government said the action is part of government’s overall strong stance against illegal drugs.

He said the destruction exercise in the West Region follows an instruction by the Head of State giving the structure the mandate for a systematic destruction of all confiscated contraband to prevent any possibility of redistribution back into the community. Observers say the directive stresses a commitment to eliminating the supply chain and sending a clear message of deterrence to criminal organizations.

The seized items included counterfeit medications with an estimated worth of 360 million FCFA. These fake pharmaceuticals, the Minister pointed out, often target common illnesses and are actively sought by families, highlighting the vulnerability of the population to such deceptive practices.

 A substantial quantity of marijuana, valued at approximately 500 million FCFA, was also destroyed, representing a tangible reduction in the availability of this substance, particularly among younger individuals. Minister Atanga Nji addressed the public, stressing the potential detriment these products could inflict. The destroyed marijuana, he noted, presented a specific hazard to children and young people.

The medications presented a danger because they were not authentic and might not be as efficient in treating the conditions as claimed. The Minister offered commendation to the National Gendarmerie and Cameroon’s customs. These bodies, he said, have shown great dedication and sacrifice to curtail the circulation of such harmful and illegal drugs.

The destruction of these dangerous products is aimed at protecting the health and security of the citizens, deterring such crime, and also eliminating the circulation of these drugs and illegal substances in the community. By dismantling networks involved in such criminal acts, the authorities aim to promote a secure environment, especially for vulnerable communities.

This move also underlines a strict adherence to public health guidelines and a steadfast response to illicit activities threatening Cameroon’s population.