Norwegian Police Arrest Man Suspected of Inciting Crimes Against Humanity in Cameroon

Norwegian police have arrested Cho Lucas Yabah, a man in his 50s, on suspicion of incitement to crimes against humanity in Cameroon. Authorities are seeking to keep him in preventive custody during the investigation. His lawyer, Morten Engesbak, states the defendant pleads not guilty, arguing a misunderstanding of the situation.

Norwegian police announced on Wednesday the arrest of a man suspected of inciting crimes against humanity in Cameroon. Authorities are seeking a court's permission to keep him in preventive custody as the investigation proceeds.

The suspect, Cho Lucas Yabah, is in his 50s and is accused of playing a significant role in Cameroon's ongoing armed conflict. His lawyer, Morten Engesbak, said his client would plead not guilty to the charges and opposed the demand for preventive custody.

Engesbak added that Yabah believes the case is based on a misunderstanding of the situation in Cameroon and his involvement. Since 2017, separatists in Cameroon's English-speaking regions have been fighting against perceived marginalization by the French-speaking government. The conflict has resulted in over 6,000 deaths, with Amnesty International reporting numerous human rights abuses by both government troops and separatists.

Norwegian police investigator Anette Berger emphasized Norway's international obligation to prevent the country from becoming a haven for war criminals.

(With inputs from agencies.)