A murder investigation in western Cameroon has uncovered what authorities say is a wider network involved in human organ trafficking, following the killing of a young woman whose body was found decapitated. The victim, Karel Stella Yankam, was killed on March 13, 2026, in the West Region, in a case that investigators have described as particularly disturbing.
Her death prompted an operation by security forces that led to the arrest of two main suspects, identified as Jean Bourgeois-Guardio and Estelle Fongang. A third suspect, Asimou Mohamed, is believed by investigators to have acted as a client.
According to preliminary findings, he allegedly promised the couple 100 million CFA francs in exchange for the victim’s eyes.
A subsequent search of a property in Banencan revealed further evidence that expanded the scope of the investigation.
Officers said they discovered five skulls and several human bones, pointing to what they believe is a broader trafficking operation spanning rural and peri-urban communities.
The West Region, like other parts of Cameroon, has in recent years faced growing concerns over ritual killings and illicit trade in human body parts, often linked to criminal networks.
Authorities say the suspects will be brought before the courts in the coming days as investigations continue to identify possible accomplices and determine the full extent of the network.
Law enforcement officials have also appealed to the public to report any suspicious activity, stressing that community cooperation remains key to tackling such crimes.
The case has shocked many in the region, highlighting the challenges faced by security services in confronting organised criminal activity involving human remains.
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