Dr Olivia Dissongo Joki, on duty at the Nylon-Douala District Hospital, was abducted by unidentified persons on Wednesday afternoon.

The news spread like wildfire on social networks. A doctor has been kidnapped in Douala, it was seen circulating from forum to forum. What at first appeared to be a rumour was at least accompanied by an illustration. In the photo, a woman can be seen tied up in the back of a vehicle. The rumour becomes reality when it comes from government authorities who confirm it.

“I have just learnt that one of my collaborators, Dr Olivia Dissongo Joki, has been missing since today in Douala and that it is a kidnapping. Wishing her family more courage, we assure them that everything is being done to find her quickly.” Thus launched the Minister of Public Health Manaouda Malachie in a Tweet dated 06 March 2022.

The image that serves as evidence to confirm the abduction was taken and shared by her captors to put pressure on her family. According to media sources, the kidnappers demanded a large sum of money as ransom from her family members in exchange for her release.

In a post on Facebook, the Honourable Nourane Foster called on the authorities to mobilise in the search for the doctor and his abductors. “I call on the telecommunication services and the competent authorities to take up the case so that the culprits are quickly arrested and brought to justice,” the MP wrote.