Human Rights Watch (HRW) issued a strong rebuke to Cameroonian security forces on Tuesday, accusing them of exacerbating violence during ongoing protests instead of performing their duties to protect the populace. The organization urgently called for an impartial investigation into the force used by police and the immediate release of those detained amidst the upheaval.

The call from HRW coincides with widespread violence that has shaken Cameroon following the contentious elections on October 12. Tensions soared when opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary prematurely declared himself the victor, leading to early skirmishes between his supporters and the police before the official results were even announced.

On October 17, the Cameroon Constitutional Council declared the incumbent President Paul Biya the winner, marking the start of his eighth term in office and extending his 43-year rule. The declaration has ignited protests across major cities, including Douala, Yaoundé, Garoua, and Maroua, which have been stained with the blood of demonstrators. The jails have been filled with opposition leaders who are crying foul over what they claim is an election marred by fraud.

The unrest has drawn international attention with the United Nations Human Rights Office confirming reports of casualties and arrests linked to the protests. They have echoed HRW's calls for restraint and thorough investigations to prevent further violence.

Cameroon's diaspora has also voiced its dissent, condemning the constitutional council’s validation of the election results as a theft of democracy and a national embarrassment.

As HRW continues to press the Cameroonian authorities to put an end to the violence and free those detained, the situation remains tense with no clear resolution in sight. The global community watches closely as Cameroon grapples with the aftermath of an election that has deeply divided the nation.