Operation Sparrow Hawk, better known by its French language acronym “Opération Epervier” is one of the most broadcasted antiphons to the battle against corruption and embezzlement of public funds in Cameroon. The operation so describes the attitude of the sparrow hawk when it stalks and snatches its victims - individuals who are alleged to have embezzled public funds. Reason why many believe the operation is a targeted political action.
By Yemti Harry Ndienla,
However, some Cameroonians highly acclaim the operation as a traceable proof in the war against embezzlement, and to stamp out corruption in the country which took world corruption trophy for keep. The truth is that corruption wouldn’t have been rife in Cameroon if operation “epervier” went into effect 29 years ago when President Biya, became president. Yes, ENAM graduates would not have been swindling tax payers’ money with impunity. Today, every vote holder in the Biya regim wants to retire a billionaire or at least a millionaire
The country’s Minister of Justice is said to have the dirty files of all those who have embezzled, waiting instructions from the head of state to activate prosecution. "I can assure you that I have many corruption case files on my table who will soon be arrested", Amadou Ali, is reported to have told the press in Cameroon. The minister who revealed that there were some scandalous cases of mismanagement called on the judicial family to fasten their belts and be courageous enough to give the right sanctions especially on cases of corruption and embezzlement.
Amadou Ali reassured Cameroonians that they will see more victims as Supreme State Control keeps investigating budgetary transaction in various ministries to fish out irregularities. By so doing the Minister knows who will next be arrested, detained, judged or jailed for embezzlement.
One of those preys is Tadzong Abel Ndeh, former Government Delegate to Bamenda Urban Council. Ndeh, who is presently on detention at the judicial police in Bamenda, was arrested last Feb, 1, 2010, on charges of mismanagement and embezzlement of state funds during his tenure as Government Delegate. Since his arrest and detention the former Bamenda landlord had been helping element of the judicial police carryout their investigation. On this score his residence had been searched by investigators on several occasions. The main idea behind the search was to uncover incriminating evidence that would help nail the former government delegate who is also a senior member of the ruling CPDM party of President Paul Biya.
The arrest and detention of Ndeh – the latest Anglophone victim in the fight against corruption in Cameroon, came a couple of weeks after those of former basic education minister, Haman Adama, former secretary of state for basic education Christine Abena, amongst others.
At the end of the day, the critical question is whether the money they have embezzled is being recovered? If yes, where is the money?
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