The security situation in the capital city, Yaounde, is nothing to write home about. In less than two months, over two thousand cases of rape, assault, and road accidents have been recorded, government has revealed.
Outlining the breakdown on September 26, 2023, Minister Atanga Nji, Territorial Administration boss noted that the crimes are mostly committed with the use of motorbikes.
“Indeed, during the months of August and September 2023 alone, more than 700 cases of assault, 300 cases of rape, 110 road diversions, 900 cases of serious accidents, some of whose victims were permanently disabled have been reported,” he announced.
To the official, a key solution to these alarming figures lies in having commercial bike riders abide by regulations in place.
In Cameroon, operating a motorcycle for commercial purposes, is governed by Decree No. 2008/3447/PM/DU of December 31, 2008. It lays down the conditions and procedures for operating motorcycles for a fee including a number of identification requirements.
“Counting on the good faith of motorcycle taxi drivers, the Administrative Authorities have always demonstrated administrative tolerance in order to give them time to comply with the above-mentioned decree,” Minister Atanga Nji said.
The regulations in force demand that those operating motorbikes for commercial purposes present to the appropriate authorities, a valid national identity card and a category A driving licence. They too must have the motorbike registered and must wear a numbered vest or jacket.
“There is a clear choice: either you choose to be identified and practice your profession, or you decide not to be identified and stop practicing your profession. In any event, offenders will face the full force of the law,” Minister Atanga Nji warned.
The minister’s move as assuring s it sounds, left out any options or assurances for victims of the practice. Rape it should be recalled, is punishable under section 296 of the Cameroon Penal Code. The penalty ranges from five to ten years behind bars and more for victims under the age of 16. The sanction can be doubled or raised higher for perpetrators who are public servants or religious ministers, or are assisted by one or more people. Still, getting justice for victims remains an uphill task.
Cover photo by Edouard TAMBA on Unsplash
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