(MENAFN) The Human Rights Watch (HRW) has accused Cameroonian security forces of employing lethal measures, carrying out killings, and arbitrarily detaining hundreds amid a violent crackdown following the disputed Oct. 12 election.

In a report published on Wednesday in Nairobi, the organization stated that police and gendarmes used live bullets and tear gas to break up opposition-led demonstrations challenging the re-election of President Paul Biya, 92, who was announced as the winner on Oct. 27 with 53.66% of the vote.

Numerous protesters reportedly lost their lives to gunfire, while dozens more sustained gunshot injuries.

The rights group explained that it conducted interviews with 20 witnesses, including victims’ relatives, attorneys, and opposition leaders, documenting deaths, injuries, and arbitrary arrests across multiple cities.

According to UN sources, security forces were responsible for 48 deaths, whereas opposition groups reported a slightly higher toll of 55 fatalities.

Ilaria Allegrozzi, HRW’s senior Africa researcher, said in a statement that "the authorities should immediately rein in, investigate, and prosecute responsible security forces, and all political leaders should call on their supporters to reject violence."

Biya’s main opponent, Issa Tchiroma Bakary, had proclaimed himself the winner and accused authorities of widespread electoral fraud.

The HRW also noted that hundreds, including minors, have been detained since the unrest.

Legal representatives assisting detainees indicated that up to 2,000 individuals are being held nationwide, many of whom have yet to appear before a judge.

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