A recent landslide in Cameroon’s West Region has left a tragic mark on the community, with the death toll now reaching 11, according to local authorities. The incident was triggered by heavy rainfall that has been affecting the country, leading to widespread flooding and landslides.
On Friday, West Region Governor Augustine Fonka Awa reported that rescuers had recovered seven more bodies from the rubble, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths to 11. Unfortunately, the bodies found were described as being in an “advanced state of decomposition,” indicating the challenging conditions faced by search teams.
The landslide occurred earlier in the week near Dschang Town, burying three passenger buses, road equipment, and several workers under tons of debris on a steep hill in La Falaise. Initial efforts led to the recovery of four bodies on Tuesday, but concern remains high, with over 50 people still feared trapped in the rubble.
Family members of the victims are anxiously waiting for news of their loved ones. Emmeline Wakam shared her heart-wrenching experience, revealing that they have already recovered her mother’s body, but her grandmother and brother are still unaccounted for after five long days of waiting.
The heavy rains that sparked this landslide are not isolated; they have affected various regions across Central Africa, causing significant danger to local residents. Those living near the steep road connecting the commercial hub of Douala to the West Region have long expressed concerns about the risks associated with landslides along this increasingly perilous route.
As the rescue operation continues with heavy equipment working tirelessly to clear the debris, the community watches and waits, hoping for more recoveries while mourning the loss of those taken too soon. This incident serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the power of nature and the importance of listening to local warnings about potential hazards.