Human Trafficking Network Disguised as Marketing Scheme: 13 Suspects Arrested by National Gendarmerie
Thirteen suspects linked to a human trafficking and fraudulent recruitment network were presented to the press on June 22, 2026, at the National Gendarmerie headquarters in Yaoundé. The suspects include six coordinators and seven representatives accused of operating under the cover of network marketing schemes. According to the Deputy Director of Central Coordination at the […]
The suspects include six coordinators and seven representatives accused of operating under the cover of network marketing schemes.
According to the Deputy Director of Central Coordination at the National Gendarmerie, Colonel Atangana Fiacre Kisito, investigations were launched at the beginning of 2026 following numerous complaints from Cameroonians and citizens of neighboring countries, particularly Nigeria.
The investigations uncovered a structured network operating under names such as QNET, IGNITE, UNIMEC and other local variants. The group allegedly targeted students, unemployed youths, recent graduates facing financial difficulties and individuals seeking opportunities abroad.
Authorities say victims were lured with promises of employment, training and better prospects overseas before being required to pay substantial registration fees. Many were housed in communal residences and subjected to psychological pressure aimed at recruiting additional members.
Security services have identified hundreds of victims, with more than 6,000 individuals reportedly registered across several cities, including Yaoundé, Douala, Bafoussam, Ebolowa, Bertoua, Maroua, Garoua and Ngaoundéré.
Investigations revealed that the network operated through a hierarchical structure involving leaders, recruiters and victims. Some victims were reportedly transferred through Garoua to Nigeria, while foreign nationals were also integrated into local cells.
While thirteen suspects are now in custody and expected to face justice, two alleged leaders believed to be in the Republic of Congo and the Central African Republic remain on the run and are actively being sought after.
The National Gendarmerie has urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious recruitment offers, promises of overseas employment or pressure to join such schemes. Authorities say efforts are continuing to dismantle the network, identify its financial channels and support victims through reintegration measures.
Egoh Yvonne (Intern)