A maritime operation targeting imported pharmaceutical products in Limbe has triggered widespread public anger. LRC loyal forces carried out the operation and targeted a consignment intercepted on the high seas.
While authorities presented the seizure as a crackdown on illicit drugs, many Cameroonians have challenged the operation. They question both the motives behind the exercise and how the seized products were classified.
On Tuesday, November 3, 2026, a delegation led by Dr Annereke Nyenti, Director of the Regional Hospital Limbe, inspected the seized consignment.
Authorities reportedly intercepted the goods at sea. The shipment allegedly originated from neighbouring Nigeria and contained pharmaceutical products and household items.
The forces later displayed the consignment in front of the Gendarmerie Company in Limbe. They presented the operation as part of efforts to combat fake drugs.
However, the official explanation has failed to convince many citizens. Social media users have flooded the announcement’s comment section with criticism and accusations.
Several commentators argue that the seized products are not necessarily contraband. They describe them as ordinary medicines and household products commonly found in pharmacies and drugstores across Cameroun.
They further argue that many traders depend on Nigerian supply chains. These traders reportedly seek affordable products because of accessibility and pricing challenges within formal distribution networks.
Consequently, critics question why authorities would treat the entire consignment as illicit. They insist that officials must distinguish between counterfeit medicines, unregistered products and genuine pharmaceuticals.
More troubling, several commentators have accused security personnel of selective enforcement and financial extortion.
They allege that the operation targeted traders who failed to meet informal financial demands. According to these accusations, traders who pay the required amounts can move similar goods without facing comparable scrutiny.
Some commentators therefore believe the seizure was linked to alleged non-compliance with financial arrangements involving the occupying security forces.
By Lucas Muma | BaretaNews Editor
