UN angry over kidnap of students in Cameroon

By Prudence Arobani

The United Nations is angry over the kidnap of students and staff of a secondary school in Bmenda, North-West of Cameroon and warned that there could be no justification for crimes against civilians, particularly minors.

United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, condemned the Monday’s reported kidnap and called for their immediate release and return to their homes and families.

No fewer than 79 students were reportedly abducted on Monday morning with their teacher, the principal and a driver.

The abduction has prompted a massive search operation involving the Cameroonian army.

One student who hid under a bed said that events unfolded quickly as the kidnappers threatened to shoot, rounding up the older boys and leaving the smaller ones behind.

While no group has taken responsibility for the kidnappings, some journalists report that separatists complain that the Cameroon school system suppresses the English-speaking system inherited from the British.

The spokesperson of the UN, Stéphane Dujarric, quoted Secretary-General that there was the need for a peaceful solution to the crisis in the North-West and South-West regions of Cameroon through an inclusive dialogue process.

According to him, the UN stands ready to assist in this regard. (NAN)