A coordinated operation by the Gendarmerie Brigade in Bwélélo has broken up a criminal network accused of human trafficking and online fraud in Dibombari, Moungo Division of the Littoral region. The raid, carried out around midday on May 14, led to the rescue of 17 young Cameroonians who were allegedly being prepared for illegal transfer to Malaysia.
The case began when Reverend Movuh Derick of Gospel Center Church in Babenga brought two escapees to the brigade. Their testimonies pointed investigators toward a group operating in Yapaki, Dibombari, that was running a well-organized scheme targeting job seekers desperate for opportunities abroad.
According to investigators led by Chef Major Samuel Bouazoc, the network posted fake overseas job offers on social media and digital platforms. Once victims were convinced, the traffickers collected large sums of money and arranged clandestine travel arrangements. Each of the 17 rescued individuals had reportedly paid around 550,000 FCFA with the hope of securing work and a better life outside the country.
With support from the Mbanga Gendarmerie Company and the Mbanga Investigation Brigade, authorities arrested four suspected members of the gang: Effim Leonel, 30 years-old; Mbi Betty, 26 years-old; Ako Boris, 28 years-old; and Nafissatou Berinyuy, 25 years-old.
The operation underscores how online recruitment scams continue to exploit young Cameroonians seeking work abroad. Security forces say the investigation is still open to identify additional accomplices and dismantle the wider network.
Officials are urging the public to be cautious of unsolicited job offers circulated online, especially those that demand upfront payments or promise guaranteed overseas employment without clear documentation.
One Comment
https://shorturl.fm/RpF0N