A new report from Amnesty International has claimed that suspected Boko Haram fighters are being tortured to death by security forces in Cameroon.

The human rights organisation has announced that the report, named ‘Cameroon’s secret torture chambers: human rights violations and war crimes in the fight against Boko Haram’, is supported by satellite imagery, photographic and video evidence.

Figures released by the report show that 101 people were detained secretly and tortured between 2013 and 2017.

Amnesty International West and Central Africa regional director Alioune Tine said: “We have repeatedly and unequivocally condemned the atrocities and war crimes committed by Boko Haram in Cameroon. But, nothing could justify the callous and widespread practice of torture committed by the security forces against ordinary Cameroonians, who are often arrested without any evidence and forced to endure unimaginable pain.

"Given the weight of the evidence we have uncovered, the authorities must initiate independent investigations into these practices of incommunicado detention and torture."

“These horrific violations amount to war crimes. Given the weight of the evidence we have uncovered, the authorities must initiate independent investigations into these practices of incommunicado detention and torture, including potential individual and command responsibility.”

The detainees were allegedly subjected to severe beatings and drownings at more than 20 different sites, including four military bases, two facilities run by intelligence services, a private residence and a school.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The majority of victims were tortured in two unofficial detention sites, including the headquarters of the Rapid Intervention Batallion (BIR) in Salak, near the northern city of Maroua, and a facility in the capital, Yaoundé run by the General Directorate of External Research (DGRE).

The victims said they were subjected to at least 24 torture methods.

Since 2014, Boko Haram has killed more than 1,500 civilians in Cameroon and abducted many others.