Roasting to death of youngsters: West Region governor puts Baloum chief, eight others on administrative detention.

The information is contained in an order, signed June 19, 2026, by Governor Awa Fonka Augustine. The order authorises a renewable 15-day administrative custody measure against the suspects. 

The suspects include the traditional ruler of Baloum, Chief Noussi Pokam Charly Constant and eight other accomplices. 

The accomplices include Noussi Wamba Loïc Dibril, Fonkoua Bryan, Numbe Alban Peguy, Foka Kengni Ravel, Tazifoue Tegang Arthur Louriche, Paguy Victor Martial, Djoni Djousop Jordan and Fotsi Alain Bruno. 

They are said to have been arrested during a raid, which took place on the night of June 17 to 18, 2026. The decision follows investigations into the June 5, 2026 incident, that claimed the lives of two men who are reported to have been accused of stealing roofing sheets in a school.

According to the governor’s release, the suspects are accused of being authors, co-authors, or accomplices in the murder of Sidamo Diffo Steve Achille, alleged to have been involved in theft, alongside his supposed accomplice, Kamta Jean Bostel. 

The duo was reportedly lynched and burned alive by an angry crowd in the locality. The administrative order states that the detention is part of ongoing investigations being carried out by the West Regional Gendarmerie Legion, under the supervision of its commander. 

According to the administrative authority, the move is aimed at preserving public order and ensuring accountability as the inquiry unfolds.

The detainees are said to be held at the Central Prison in Bafoussam, where the order will be enforced. Investigations are said to continue to arrest more suspects and determine their level of implication in the case.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3825 of Monday June 22, 2026