Hervé Bopda, currently detained at the Douala Central prison, for sexual assault on minors, resulting in transmission of HIV in some cases, is claiming his innocence. The businessman who was remanded into custody on March 1, 2024, in the wake of hundreds of accusations made on social media hopes for a provisional release.
According to Me Roland Ojong-Ashu, Bopda’s lawyer, the case is still under investigation at the Wouri High Court. The lawyer is confident about the outcome, highlighting the lack of substantial evidence against his client. A request for provisional release was filed a month ago but has yet to received a response. Bopda’s lawyer insists that out of the hundreds of accusations made on social media, only five witnesses have come forward to the judicial police, without providing conclusive evidence.
Me Ojong-Ashu states: “My client’s innocence is a fact. Cameroon is a country of law. Justice will prevail.” He also mentions the possibility of seeking compensation for the damage caused to Bopda’s image and reputation.
The case erupted following accusations by whistle-blower Nzui Manto on Facebook, where nearly a hundred women accused Bopda of various crimes, including rape and assault. However, the lawyer points out that medical examinations did not corroborate some of the accusations, particularly the transmission of HIV. This case raises important questions about the role of social media in justice, the presumption of innocence, and the need for tangible evidence in judicial proceedings in Cameroon.
