The International Press Institute (IPI) has been joined by several other media rights organizations including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) in expressing their solidarity for journalist and film-maker, Hans Achomba.
“We continue to stand in solidarity with the journalists and the media community in Cameroon, and hope for Achomba’s safe return” part of the jointly signed statement reads.
“We, the undersigned organizations, express our deep concern over the disappearance of freelance journalist Hans Achomba since November 5, 2025. To date, his whereabouts remain unknown. We urge the police to investigate the matter and ascertain his whereabouts swiftly” an earlier portion in the statement reads.
Achomba was earlier arrested and detained in 2017 for interviewing a bike rider while filming a documentary about the Anglophone Crisis. His son (who now keeps asking where his father is), was born when Achomba was in detention – from January 2017 to September 2017.
While security officials claim to have nothing to do with his disappearance, the fact that his home was raided by the same officials two days before his disappearance raises red flags.
Achomba’s arrest simply for commenting on current affairs and criticizing the regime fairly – a democratic right – raises serious concerns for press freedom. These arrests are meant to instill fear and deter critical reporting that holds the Biya regime accountable and must not be normalized, especially in the context of a highly disputed election.
Read full statement signed by the International Press Institute and partners here: https://ipi.media/cameroonian-journalist-hans-achomba-missing-since-november-5-2025/