It was during a regional league match that separatist groups panicked the participants of the Rainbow FC and SIMAF FA match on 8 June 2023.
Rainbow FC and SIMAF FA in panic mode
It was at the GS Nibung stadium in the North-West region on 8 June 2024 that this unprecedented but common occurrence took place. A large crowd had gathered to watch the North West Regional League match between Rainbow FC and SIMAF FA. Just as the match was getting underway and going off without a hitch, the spectacle was interrupted by loud explosions. Heavy gunfire from the Mbessi area, close to the stadium, caused such panic that the match was interrupted for almost 10 minutes.
In this tense atmosphere, players, officials and spectators were forced to get down on their stomachs to avoid being hit by a stray bullet. The almost unreal moment of panic was immortalised by a few brave souls who feared the worst. The gunshots faded away and dissipated 10 minutes later, like a new kick-off to the match. The kicking match between Rainbow FC and SIMAF FA resumed.
The match continued to its conclusion without further disruption. The North West Regional League match between Rainbow FC and SIMAF FA ended in a two-all tie. Which just goes to show that everyone is equal in the face of danger. A scare reminiscent of many other fatal ones in the predominantly English-speaking regions of Cameroon.
