Vina Division: 43 vultures, donkey found dead at Minim-Martap Bauxite Mining Site.

The disturbing discovery was made during the night of January 6 to 7, 2026, on the Danielle plateau.

According to local authorities, the scale and suddenness of the incident are unprecedented in the area with the instantaneous death of such a large number of vultures, along with a domestic anima.

The incident is said to have raised serious questions about possible environmental or human-related causes.

Informed of the incident, the Divisional Officer, DO, of Martap Subdivision, Doukina Kedemou, accompanied by other local administrative officials, carried out an on-site visit. 

The delegation assessed the affected zone and ordered the immediate opening of an investigation to determine the origin of the deaths.

Even though no official release has been made following the incident, some locals are of the opinion that some environmental contamination linked to mining activities, deliberate poisoning, or a natural but rare toxic phenomenon might have been the cause of the incident. 

Samples have reportedly been collected for analysis by environmental and veterinary experts, whose findings are expected to guide further action.

The Danielle plateau, it should be said, occupies a strategic position within Cameroon’s mining sector, as the Minim-Martap project is known to host one of the country’s most significant bauxite deposits. 

While the project is viewed as a driver of economic growth and industrial development, it has also attracted scrutiny over its potential environmental and social impacts.

According to wildlife experts, the sudden death of protected wildlife species such as vultures could reignite debates on ecological risk management in mining zones, particularly in fragile savanna ecosystems like those of Adamawa. 

For local populations, the incident has fueled nervousness over water safety, livestock health, and long-term environmental consequences.

As investigations continue, authorities have called on the population to remain calm while awaiting conclusive results. 

The findings, officials are said to have noted, are expected to clarify responsibilities, identify preventive measures, and determine whether mining operations or other factors played a role in this incident.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3672 of Tuesday January 13, 2026