A tragic flooding incident in Nkwen, Bamenda III, has left at least three people dead following the collapse of a temporary pedestrian bridge constructed by BUNS, the firm overseeing ongoing urban road works in the city.
The incident occurred after an intense downpour swept a makeshift bridge alongside several individuals in the evening of Thursday, March 26, 2026. The makeshift crossing, installed to facilitate movement during construction works, was unable to withstand the force of the water and gave way under pressure.
Taku Paul, Chief of Centre, Army Rescue Unit Bamenda.Senior Warrant Officer Taku Paul, Chief of the Army Rescue Unit in Bamenda, confirmed that three victims, all women, lost their lives. Their bodies were recovered after an intensive search operation carried out by the Army Rescue Unit based in Mulang in collaboration with the local population. He further disclosed that four individuals were rescued from the floodwaters and are currently receiving medical attention. Three of the survivors are being treated at Mbingo Annex Hospital, while another is undergoing care at a PMI health facility. According to him, the operation was particularly challenging due to the strength of the current and the volume of debris involved.
Statement from BUNS.In the aftermath of the tragedy, BUNS issued an official statement though with a wrong date, expressing deep sorrow and compassion for the victims and their families. The company acknowledged that the temporary crossing had been installed to ensure continuity of movement during construction but admitted that it was overwhelmed by what it described as exceptionally heavy rainfall. Extending condolences to the bereaved families, the company emphasized that no circumstance could diminish the value of the lives lost and pledged to honour their memory with respect and humility.
Addressing public concern, BUNS reassured residents that safety remains central to all ongoing works. The company noted that while the intensity of the rainfall was unusual, the incident has underscored the need for stronger preventive measures. It stated that steps are already being taken to reinforce temporary crossings and safety installations across the project while a comprehensive technical review of all provisional structures is underway. In addition, BUNS affirmed that it is working closely with competent authorities to fully understand the circumstances surrounding the collapse and to draw necessary lessons.
One of the Bodies Retrieved.Monitoring systems and emergency response mechanisms are also being strengthened, particularly in anticipation of adverse weather conditions. The company reiterated its commitment to transparency and full cooperation with authorities, assuring the public that every effort will be made to prevent such an incident from occurring again. It also indicated its readiness to support affected families in coordination with local authorities and community leaders during this difficult period.
The Three Dead Bodies Prepared by Medical Personnel From Bamenda Regional Hospital.The incident has stirred strong emotions across Bamenda, where many residents depend on temporary infrastructure put in place during ongoing urban development projects. As search continue, authorities and stakeholders are calling for calm and unity, stressing the importance of collective responsibility.
In its closing remarks, BUNS called on the community to remain united, emphasizing that the development of the city must always go hand in hand with the protection of human life. The tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities posed by extreme weather and the urgent need for resilient and safety-conscious infrastructure in growing urban centers like Bamenda.
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