Cameroon: man jailed for presenting forged decrees to CRTV

In Yaoundé, judicial authorities have remanded in custody Johann Adriel Sitchom Kuate, the man accused of attempting to broadcast falsified presidential decrees on national television.

False decrees presented at CRTV headquarters

On June 12, 2026, Johann Adriel Sitchom Kuate arrived at the CRTV headquarters in Yaoundé’s Nlongkak district. According to witnesses, he presented documents that appeared official, including what he claimed was a presidential decree appointing him as Vice President of the Republic.

Standard procedure for such official announcements requires them to be read on air to inform the public. However, CRTV staff, suspecting irregularities, immediately escalated the matter to state authorities, including those monitoring President Paul Biya’s official visit in Geneva.

Forgery exposed and legal consequences

A forensic review confirmed the documents were counterfeit. Investigators discovered that the decree bore the same name as the individual who presented it: Johann Adriel Sitchom Kuate. This revelation transformed the incident from a bizarre personal act into what authorities now consider an attempted state security breach.

Following a swift investigation, prosecutors filed charges against him for attempting to undermine national security—a serious offense under Cameroonian law.

Was this an isolated act or part of a larger scheme?

The case raises questions about whether this was the impulsive decision of an individual seeking notoriety or a premeditated attempt to destabilize state institutions. Authorities continue to examine potential motives and affiliations, though no further suspects have been publicly named.

Johann Adriel Sitchom Kuate now faces trial, where he will have the opportunity to present his defense against charges that could result in severe penalties if proven.