The raid, conducted by the Gendarmerie Legion of the Centre Region on June 24, targeted a network involved in drug trafficking and related criminal activities.
A sweeping anti-drug operation in Yaounde led to the arrest of 175 suspects and the seizure of large quantities of narcotics, counterfeit currency, and stolen motorcycles. Authorities recovered 650 Tramadol tablets, four boxes of the prescription drug, 255 packets of crack cocaine, and 588 wraps of a substance locally known as “Thai.” A significant quantity of Indian hemp was also confiscated. Drug paraphernalia, including 31 smoking devices, 16 syringes, and four scissors, were found at the scene.
The operation also uncovered 14 daggers, suggesting potential violence linked to the drug trade. Among the unusual items seized were a chainsaw, a television screen, three mattresses, and a sewing machine, hinting at possible makeshift living quarters. Investigators also found mutilated 10,000 FCFA notes suspected to be part of a counterfeit money operation. In a separate discovery, 61 stolen motorcycles were recovered from a warehouse, pointing to a broader criminal enterprise. The suspects are being held at the Nlongkak Gendarmerie Brigade for questioning, while authorities work to return the seized items to their rightful owners.
Many have praised this action against crime, others say police only caught small-time dealers while real criminal networks in dangerous neighbourhoods remain untouched. The raid has started important conversations about safety and jobs. Some believe stopping drug sales will make streets safer, but others worry that without better job opportunities, young people might still turn to crime. Many citizens are now asking for stronger actions against powerful criminal groups and better solutions to help unemployed youth.
Further investigations are on-going as the Gendarmerie intensifies its crackdown on drug-related crimes in the region.
