A wave of outrage has swept through Cameroon following the arrest on February 18, 2026, in Yaoundé, of four journalists and a lawyer investigating the situation of migrants expelled from the United States and held in the Cameroonian capital. The incident has sparked strong reactions both nationally and internationally, raising questions about freedom of the press and the transparency of migration agreements between Cameroon and the United States.
Among those arrested were three journalists from the Associated Press (a reporter, a videographer, and a photojournalist) as well as an independent journalist collaborating with the BBC, Randy Joe Sa'ah. Cameroonian lawyer Joseph Awah Fru, legal representative for several migrants, was also arrested. All were taken to the headquarters of the judicial police for questioning before being held for several hours. Sources report that one of the journalists was even slapped during his interrogation.
Although released the same day, the authorities confiscated their equipment, including phones, computers, and audiovisual equipment, under the pretext of the presence of "sensitive information". No charges have been filed against them to date, but the seizure of equipment raises serious concerns about the protection of journalistic sources and freedom of information.
The case highlights the controversial presence of migrants expelled from the United States and held in Cameroon. An investigation by the New York Times, published on February 14, 2026, reveals that a secure complex in Yaoundé is being used as a detention center for these migrants, none of whom are Cameroonian citizens. Even more concerning, many of them have legal protections in the United States that would prevent their expulsion to their country of origin due to the risk of persecution.
The opacity surrounding this case is reinforced by the lack of official communication from the Cameroonian authorities regarding a possible agreement with Washington to receive these migrants. The U.S. State Department has also declined to comment, citing "confidential diplomatic communications". This situation fuels suspicions of a secret agreement between the two countries, denounced by lawyer Joseph Awah Fru.
Testimonies from migrants report pressure to encourage them to accept a "voluntary" return to their country of origin, under threat of prolonged detention in Cameroon. This situation raises serious concerns regarding respect for human rights and international law. The arrest of journalists adds a worrying dimension, adding to concerns about press freedom in Cameroon, already pointed out by several international organizations.
The case has taken a diplomatic turn, drawing the attention of diplomatic circles and NGOs. It comes in a context where the United States is accused of increasing expulsions to third countries to circumvent certain judicial decisions. The silence of the Cameroonian government in the face of these allegations only increases mistrust and speculation.
The case of the expelled migrants highlights sensitive diplomatic issues and fundamental questions of transparency. Cameroon is under pressure to clarify its position and guarantee respect for the rights of migrants and the press, in an international context where the migratory practices of the United States are increasingly challenged.
