Police storm Kumba, arrest citizens without ID cards

Police officers from Buea stormed Kumba on May 8, arresting anyone who could not present a national identity card or any other document to identify them. The raid was carried out in Fiango, particularly Hausa Quarters and around the Kumba Main Market; where the police picked just anyone who could not present any identification document.

News of the raid sent many city dwellers in to hiding while some stayed at home for the whole day without visiting major commercial areas in town, for fear of the police.

Despite the mass arrest, most of those picked up were later released after proper identification. A handful of citizens who did not have their identity cards with them had to send information to relatives at home. It is alleged that, others who could not immediately identify themselves regained their freedom after paying FCFA 5,000 to the police.

Since no reason was given for the raid, Kumba inhabitants think that it could be Government’s action of making sure that there are no illegal immigrants around. Others think that, it was triggered by the current wave of Boko Haram activities that is threatening security between Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

Beyond these conjectures, some argued that the Government is using it as a means to raise money, given that after the police raid, many persons will go to the police to get identity cards or resident permits.