Authorities are increasing security measures at national identity document processing centers. This is due to an alleged rise in fraudulent attempts to obtain Cameroonian citizenship, particularly by foreigners using fake national identity cards. The alarm was recently raised commissioner of police, Narcisse Magloire Fotso Makok.
In a bid to address the issue, enrollment center chiefs are now required to verify the authenticity of documents such as birth certificates and nationality certificates. Enrollment officers must ensure all submitted documents are genuine, and additional questioning may be conducted if doubts arise about an applicant’s identity as per the authorities.
Applications for national identity cards from individuals over 30 years old without valid supporting documents will be rejected. Cameroonians living abroad must provide extra documents, including passports or residence permits. Authorities have warned that those involved in nationality fraud will face severe penalties. A biometric system has been introduced to produce national identity cards within 48 hours, aiming to reduce identity fraud risks.
Commissioner Fotso Makok warned that perpetrators and accomplices of nationality-related fraud will be severely punished. The increased scrutiny aims to prevent fraudulent practices, protect the integrity of Cameroonian identity documents, and ensure citizenship is granted only to those who rightfully qualify.
The government seeks to balance facilitating legitimate applications while preventing system abuse. By strengthening verification measures and imposing strict sanctions, Cameroon aims to maintain the integrity of its identity documents and prevent nationality fraud. These measures are part of efforts to enhance the security and efficiency of the identity document application process.
