Kumba: The body of 12-year-old Maloba Magdalene, a pupil at GPS Kumba, was discovered on November 11 in an advanced state of decomposition in Nkamalikum 2, Kumba. The body was found during a clean-up competition organized by the Kumba City Council, known as the ‘Keep Your Quarter Clean’ initiative.

According to Cameroon News Agency, Magdalene had been missing for two weeks and three days prior to the discovery. Her school bag was found near the body, which aided with identification. Her remains were discovered several meters into a bush off a motorable road, a significant distance from nearby residential houses.

Family members, including Magdalene’s brother, were visibly distraught upon the discovery. The brother explained that he had been away visiting their parents in the village when he was informed that Magdalene had been missing. According to the brother, Magdalene had visited their aunt on the day he traveled and the aunt had wondered if the girl had returned home after the visit.

The family had been
searching for Magdalene unsuccessfully for days. After their efforts, which included police reports and radio announcements, they turned to witch doctors in an attempt to locate her.

At press time, the cause of Magdalene’s death had not yet been determined, and law enforcement authorities were on the scene conducting investigations.