21 Cameroonian troops killed in oil-rich Bakassi peninsula 13 November. Nigeria’s political and military leaders denied involvement; previously unknown group, Liberators of Southern Cameroon People, claimed responsibility and threatened continued attacks until Bakassi locals are allowed self-determination (see Nigeria).

Main opposition SDF party won only 14 seats in 22 July legislative elections. Ruling CPDM won at least 140. SDF leader renewed accusations of massive fraud. UN agencies began distributing aid 8 August to some 26,000 refugees from CAR in northern, eastern Cameroon.

Insecurity in remote North province continued to spill over from CAR. Security forces killed 12 bandits from CAR and Chad 14 July but failed to free 13 children held for ransom. 11 Cameroonian hostages held by unidentified gunmen in CAR freed by CAR military after gun battle 11 July. Ruling CPDM party won large majority in 22 July municipal and legislative polls; opposition claimed massive fraud.

UNHCR noted increased spillover of insecurity and refugees from Central African Republic. Suspected rebels from CAR killed 1 civilian and seized 22 in Landou and Ouro Kessoum 24 June; Cameroon sent Rapid Intervention Battalion to east to combat insecurity.

Rival Oku and Mbessa villages in north west clashed over farm land 5 May; 5 killed, 60 homes destroyed.