Today makes exactly six months since Fon Yakum Kevin Shumitang II, Fon of Bambalang a locality in Ngokentunjia Division of the North West Region was kidnapped and kept in amba captivity. Since December 7 2021, no statement has been issued concerning his release.
Some elites in his locality say since he was abducted, they have been trying to find the kidnapped Fon to no avail. Traditional Rulers and some defense and security forces have launched series of search but efforts seem futile. Hopes are however high that he is still in detention since the boys were demanding a sum of 20 million before his release.
Fon Yakum Kevin was kidnapped by gunmen on December 7 to an unknown destination while in his palace in Bambalang. He was carrying out traditional rites in preparation for the Mbaw Yakum cultural festival to be celebrated on December 9 2021. While performing traditional rites, some boys entered his palace and abducted him.
Fon Yakum Kevin served as President of the North West House of Chief and National Regional Assembly. Elites have however expressed their wish to see their Fon liberated so he resumes his duties.
However, while such forms of abductions continue to be predominant in the Country’s North West and South West Regions, which has coined the state of Ambazonia by Anglophone separatist, kidnapping for the purpose of ransom and extortion is on an increase in the country.