Stand Up for Cameroon civil society group in Cameroon, behind the ‘Collectif Défense Citoyenne’ initiative, has raised alarm over what it describes as a “sanitary emergency” in Cameroon’s detention centres, highlighting serious medical neglect and abuse, particularly affecting minors, women, and severely injured detainees.
According to a document shared today during a press conference, the group cites consolidated medical data from New Bell (Douala), PK19, and Maroua prisons showing alarming health conditions. Among the most urgent cases are detainees suffering from untreated bullet wounds, cranial trauma, advanced ear infections, and hepatitis without access to medical care.
The list includes:
- Souleymane B., 18, with an untreated gunshot wound to the left thigh.
- Idriss T., 31, bleeding from the ears, suspected cranial trauma.
- Modo M., 30, a 4-month pregnant woman reportedly denied all medical follow-up.
- W. K.J., 34, suffering from untreated hepatitis B.
Minors aged 14–17 are said to be in danger, many experiencing acute traumatic stress, untreated injuries and infections, with no psychological or medical follow-up. The report warns these conditions violate international child protection norms.
The group also notes distressing conditions for female detainees, including pregnant women lacking prenatal care, untreated gynecological infections, and reports of physical abuse.
Authorities have not yet publicly responded to the claims.