During the tenure of former intelligence chief Maxime Eko Eko, the DGRE appears to have deviated from its lawful mandate. Intelligence files were reportedly commodified, sensitive information traded to private and political actors, and operational resources repurposed for personal or factional gain. If substantiated, these practices constitute a sustained misuse of state power.
By The Independentistnews Investigative Desk
Selective Arrests, Not Structural Reform
YAOUNDE – January 2026 – The arrest of five officials within DGRE has been presented by Cameroonian authorities as evidence of institutional reform. Available information suggests the opposite. The developments indicate the exposure of entrenched practices within an intelligence service alleged to have engaged in influence peddling, unlawful surveillance, cybercrime, and the targeting of journalists and whistleblowers. The pattern points to systemic abuse rather than isolated misconduct.
Deviation from Mandate Under the Eko Eko Tenure
During the tenure of former intelligence chief Maxime Eko Eko, the DGRE appears to have deviated from its lawful mandate. Intelligence files were reportedly commodified, sensitive information traded to private and political actors, and operational resources repurposed for personal or factional gain. If substantiated, these practices constitute a sustained misuse of state power.
Transnational Repression and Threats to Whistleblowers
Of particular concern are allegations of transnational repression. Reports indicate that DGRE officials pursued whistleblower Paul Chouta beyond Cameroon’s borders. Such conduct raises serious issues under international law, including intimidation, threats to life, and violations of the rights to freedom of expression and personal security.
The Martinez Zogo Case and Risks to Journalists
The unresolved murder of journalist Martinez Zogo remains central to understanding the gravity of the situation. His killing exposed the dangers faced by journalists investigating state corruption and precipitated internal fractures within the security services. Subsequent arrests appear reactive and selective, suggesting damage control rather than accountability.
Networked Impunity and the Commodification of Intelligence
Allegations implicating senior officials and politically connected business figures suggest a networked system of impunity. When intelligence agencies sell information, target critics, and negotiate coercion, the boundary between state authority and organised crime collapses, undermining the rule of law.
Why the “Cleanup” Narrative Lacks Credibility
Claims of institutional renewal are undermined by the absence of independent judicial oversight, transparent prosecutions, civilian control of intelligence services, and international cooperation. Prolonged in-house detention, opaque proceedings, and selective accountability are inconsistent with genuine reform.
Implications for International Human-Rights Mechanisms
For international human-rights bodies, this case presents prima facie indicators of systemic violations, including threats to life, suppression of free expression, transnational intimidation, and the misuse of intelligence services for political repression. These patterns suggest that domestic remedies are ineffective.
Conclusion
The DGRE affair is not an internal disciplinary issue. It is evidence of a structurally compromised security institution operating beyond legal constraints. Meaningful accountability will require independent investigations and sustained international engagement.
The Independentistnews Investigative Desk
