Financial Crime World

Cameroon’s Illicit Economies: A Complex Web of Corruption and Criminal Activity

YAOUNDE, Cameroon - The south-west and north-west regions of Cameroon have been plagued by a significant number of Nigerians involved in illicit economies. However, evidence suggests that criminal actors from other parts of the world, including China and Turkey, are also playing a role.

Leadership and Governance

Long-standing security threats have eroded trust in the government, leading to an increase in inter-communal tensions, politically motivated arrests, and repression of social and political reform demands. The national capacity to address organized crime is limited, and current legislation does not comply with international standards.

  • Corruption within state institutions provides a safe haven for criminal actors
  • Embezzlement of public funds and abuse of office are common practices
  • Some state officials and political elites are believed to be directly involved in and profiting from illegal activities

Criminal Justice and Security

Cameroon’s judicial system is hampered by a lack of resources and limited independence from the executive branch, resulting in a backlog of cases awaiting prosecution and impunity for government officials accused of involvement in organized crime. Prison conditions are also far below international standards.

  • Law enforcement is often politicized, with anti-corruption drives targeting political opponents rather than genuine corrupt individuals
  • The government has made efforts to train law enforcement agencies and cooperate with regional organizations, but corruption within these agencies remains a significant challenge

Economic and Financial Environment

Cameroon has a regulatory framework in place to combat money laundering, but implementation is inconsistent due to the lack of a specialized institution to ensure compliance. The country is part of a regional task force tackling money laundering, but gaps remain in its regulatory framework.

  • The Cameroonian economy is highly regulated and influenced by government price controls
  • The COVID-19 pandemic and inflation caused by the crisis between Russia and Ukraine have exacerbated economic challenges

Civil Society and Social Protection

The treatment of victims of human trafficking remains weak, with no formal policy to encourage victims to participate in investigations or provide support. There are also no known governmental mechanisms to support drug users.

  • Measures to prevent organized crime are limited, with a focus on deterrence through punishment rather than rehabilitation
  • Civil society organizations play a crucial role in combating organized crime, particularly human trafficking and smuggling

Conclusion

The complex web of corruption and criminal activity in Cameroon’s illicit economies requires a multifaceted approach to address the root causes. Strengthening leadership and governance, improving criminal justice and security, and creating an economic and financial environment that discourages illegal activities are essential steps towards combating organized crime.

In addition, civil society organizations must continue to play a crucial role in advocating for human rights and social protection measures. However, the government must also take concrete steps to address corruption and improve the treatment of victims of human trafficking and other forms of organized crime.