Government Forces Disperse Traders at Awing Market; Residents Respond, Accuse Them Of Going The "Amba Way"

 

Awing Market In Santa Sub Division 

Raymond Dingana 

As the people of the North West Region work hard to restore normalcy, the actions of those meant to provide security are undermining their efforts for peace.

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, while residents of Awing in Santa Sub Division, North West Region (NWR) and traders from far and near were out trying to earn a living, gunshots rang out. Many, including the elderly, young children, and people with disabilities, sought safety.

"At first, we thought the gunshots were from separatists. We were shocked to find out they were from government forces,"

said an eyewitness. 

He added, 

"They forced everyone out of the market while firing shots in the air. Shop owners were ordered at gunpoint to close their shops."

According to Awing Magazine on Facebook,

"Since early September, the market has only been open on Sundays due to a lockdown imposed by Ambazonia fighters. Traders, many of whom are from Bamenda, tried to move to a smaller market in Mbenten Quarter, but their efforts were short-lived. Security forces chased them away, claiming they were following separatist lockdown orders and ignoring government rules."

Community Responds: Accuses Government Forces of Acting Like Separatists

Confused about why those meant to protect them are acting against their interests, the people of Awing, along with visiting traders, accused security forces of behaving like separatist fighters. A trader who sells crayfish said

"Shutting down the market in broad daylight makes them no different from separatists. They are helping to enforce the lockdown. Separatists must be laughing, saying security forces have joined them in enforcing market lockdowns. We expected them to protect us, not to do this."

In addition to shutting down the market, Awing Magazine reported that movement will be restricted after 7 PM, with punishments for those who don’t comply. Only those going to the hospital or visiting the brigade will be allowed out after that time.

Document Announcing Restrictions Of Movements In Awing 

These measures follow a series of attacks on the Awing-Bamenda road by unknown gunmen, who have been robbing people. Last week, a man was shot dead while riding a motorcycle to Bamenda, and the motorcycle rider was injured.

As the saying goes, "When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers." Civilians have been suffering since the crisis began.

📷Awing Magazine, and My Media Prime TV