Social Media Activist Steve Akam Found in Military Custody with Signs of Torture

Steve Akam, a Cameroonian social media activist known for his criticism of President Paul Biya, has been found in a military court cell showing signs of torture. Akam, who went missing last month, was reportedly taken from Gabon. Human Rights Watch urges prompt medical aid and investigation.

Steve Akam, a prominent social media activist and critic of the Cameroonian government, has been located in a military court's security cell in Yaoundé. Human Rights Watch reported that Akam's lawyers found him with severe injuries indicative of torture, including partial paralysis and serious visual impairments.

Steve Akam, who uses the alias Ramon Cotta on TikTok and has a substantial following, disappeared last month. He was last seen in an online video handcuffed and surrounded by Cameroonian police near the Gabon border. Akam has been vocal against President Paul Biya's administration, particularly criticizing the ongoing conflict in Cameroon's anglophone regions.

Human Rights Watch urged the Cameroonian government to provide immediate medical treatment and to investigate the alleged torture. Calls for comment from the Cameroonian authorities have gone unanswered. Ilaria Allegrozzi, senior Sahel researcher at Human Rights Watch, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting the significant risk of Akam losing his sight and ability to walk.

(With inputs from agencies.)