A Legal Assessment of the Effectiveness of the Measures to Fight Against Scamming in Cameroon: The Case of Buea

Abstract

This study provides a comprehensive legal assessment of the effectiveness of anti-scamming measures in Cameroon, with specific focus on Buea. Scamming has emerged as a pervasive socio-economic challenge undermining public trust and causing significant financial losses across diverse sectors. The research critically examines the existing legal and institutional frameworks designed to prevent, detect, and penalize scam-related offenses, including relevant statutory provisions, enforcement mechanisms, and judicial practices. The primary objective is to evaluate how effectively these measures curb scamming activities within the Buea municipality and to identify gaps hindering optimal legal protection. The study adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders — including law enforcement officers, legal practitioners, victims of scamming, and local government officials — to capture nuanced insights into the practical challenges of enforcement. Additionally, survey questionnaires were administered to a representative sample of residents in Buea to quantify public perceptions of scamming prevalence and the perceived efficacy of legal measures. Relevant legal documents, policy instruments, and case law were also reviewed as part of a documentary analysis to map the statutory landscape and enforcement patterns. Quantitative data from surveys were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical techniques to identify trends and correlations between demographic factors and perceptions of legal effectiveness. Qualitative interview data and documentary evidence were subjected to thematic analysis, enabling the identification of recurrent patterns, institutional strengths, and systemic weaknesses. Findings reveal that although Cameroon has enacted several legal instruments to combat scamming, enforcement remains weak due to limited resources, procedural inefficiencies, and low public awareness. The study concludes with recommendations for legal reform, enhanced institutional capacity, and community-based anti-scamming initiatives to strengthen the overall fight against scamming in Buea.