Mokolo-Yaounde Hawkers Resist Demolition

The Mfoundi Divisional Committee for the Fight Against Urban Disorder continued its operation in Mokolo in the Mfoundi II Subdivision last weekend. The operation was in line with the goal of the committee to curb disorder in the division.

The operation that started on May 25 entails the demolition of illegal shops and stalls in the market and pavements. Hawkers were also chased away from streets and strategic areas. Last Friday's operation was particular in that the anti-disorder task force's activities were resisted by some hawkers.

Even though the team operated from different angles with the use of caterpillars, trucks, water canons and other equipment, it did not scare the hawkers who have continuously refused to quit roadsides and pavements. Movement was grounded in the market for almost three hours.

Hawkers blocked the main road, threw stones at the team and even attempted to set objects on the road ablaze. However, the rioters were immediately dispersed by security men and the gendarmerie and City Council water canons. Like in the previous days, the team demolished shops, boutiques and confiscated food stuff and other wares. A young man was caught with Indian hemp and was immediately taken for questioning.

Patrice O., one of the hawkers said he had lost most of his belongings to the security men. He however acknowledged the fact that the team is working for the good of all. "Most of the hawkers are traders who have paid for shops in the market but have rented them out to other traders and prefer to sell outside," he explained. Some of the hawkers said they were still selling on the streets because they had nowhere else to go and sell. "If they show us where to go, we will go," said one angry hawker.

The Government Delegate to the Yaounde City Council, Gilbert Tsimi Evouna said the operation was not easy but the committee face the challenge till the end. Some hawkers are adamant and have vowed to continue with their businesses no matter the circumstances. Immediately after the operation at about 3:30 p.m., hawkers went back to the roadsides and pavements. Meanwhile, the clamp down on recalcitrant hawkers is scheduled to continue in the subdivision for at least one month. Confiscated foodstuff will be given to prisoners at the Kondengui Central Prison in Yaounde, orphanages and social centres in the city while the other items will be burnt or dumped at Nkolfoulou refuse