Why Were Ten LGBTI Youths Arrested in Bafoussam? Inside the Night of Extortion—and a Cultural Exchange That Shows a Different Cameroon
A troubling incident in western Cameroon has once again drawn attention to the precarious conditions faced by LGBTI individuals in the country. Late on the night of November 23, ten young people were reportedly arrested in Bafoussam as they left a friend’s birthday celebration. According to witnesses, the group was confronted by several unidentified individuals described only as “men in uniform,” who allegedly targeted the youths solely based on their appearance and style of dress.
Witness accounts suggest that the individuals posing as authorities detained the youths without providing any legal justification. Instead, they allegedly demanded money in exchange for the group’s release—an act consistent with a long-standing pattern of extortion faced by LGBTI communities in Cameroon. Those arrested quickly reached out for help, contacting Transamical, a local human rights advocacy group dedicated to defending sexual and gender minorities, especially transgender youth.
Around 1 a.m., members of Transamical were alerted to the situation and immediately began negotiating with the alleged officers. After extensive discussions, the youths were released, but only after a payment of 50,000 FCFA (approximately $88). While the organization’s intervention prevented a prolonged and potentially more dangerous detention, the incident underscores the mounting challenges that LGBTI individuals in Cameroon continue to face on a regular basis.
Human rights organizations have repeatedly raised concerns about arbitrary arrests, harassment, and extortion carried out by people impersonating law enforcement or operating with impunity. These acts reinforce a climate of fear for LGBTI communities, particularly in towns outside major urban centers, where protective mechanisms are weaker and social stigma remains entrenched. The Bafoussam arrests are part of a broader pattern illustrating the urgent need for legal reforms, increased oversight, and stronger community advocacy.
Transamical’s involvement highlights the vital role that grassroots organizations play in providing immediate protection and support to vulnerable groups. Their swift response not only secured the youths’ release but also helped prevent further abuses that could have occurred behind closed doors. Still, the case serves as a reminder of the systemic vulnerability that persists, emphasizing the need for continued advocacy, public awareness, and stronger institutional safeguards.
In contrast to the distressing events in Bafoussam, another Cameroon-related development showcased the country’s participation in global cultural dialogue. Students from two schools in India—Girls Government Senior Secondary School (GSSS), Indora, and PM Shri Government Senior Secondary School, Gangath—engaged in a virtual international cultural exchange with students from Cameroon. The online session, held via Google Meet, saw participation from 32 Indian students and Cameroonian students accompanied by teacher Robert Kenfack.
The goal of the exchange was to help students from both countries learn about one another’s cultures, food traditions, geography, daily life, and sports. According to Mohan Sharma, Principal of GSSS Indora, such programs aim to foster global citizenship, improve communication skills, and develop mutual understanding across borders. The event highlighted the positive potential of international engagement, even as the LGBTI incident underscored the challenges that still affect everyday life in parts of Cameroon.
Together, these two events present a contrast between the obstacles faced by marginalized communities and the promising collaborations that continue to build bridges between nations. While advocacy groups like Transamical remain essential defenders of human rights, broader societal change is still needed to ensure that all individuals in Cameroon can live without fear of discrimination or abuse.
FAQs
1. What happened in Bafoussam on November 23?
Ten LGBTI youths were reportedly arrested by unidentified “men in uniform” and released only after paying 50,000 FCFA.
2. Who assisted the arrested youths?
Transamical Cameroon, an organization defending LGBTI rights, intervened and secured their release.
3. Why were the youths targeted?
Witnesses say they were targeted based on their clothing and appearance.
4. What is Transamical’s mission?
It works to protect and advocate for the rights of LGBTI individuals, especially trans youth.
5. What was the cultural exchange event about?
Students from India and Cameroon met virtually to learn about each other’s cultures, food, geography, and social life.