Gaston Eloundou Essomba, Minister of Water and Energy speaking during the consultation meeting
By Brian Mboh
Consumer Associations in Cameroon have welcomed the recent move by the ministry of Water and Energy to launch a nationwide crackdown on those who have been causing the state to lose tens of billions FCFA in electricity fraud. During the consultation meeting prior to launching the crackdown on March 16, the Consumers Association thanked the government for its efforts in fighting fraud but raised concerns about increasingly sophisticated fraud techniques that evade detection by criminals.
“Criminals are clever and are multiplying strategies that allow them to thrive,” representatives from consumer groups said.
Concerns were also raised regarding fraudulent practices within ENEO, specifically the unauthorised cancellation of bills and the resale of prepaid meters at inflated prices. This deep-seated fraud is further complicated by the ‘Protégé’ syndrome and the involvement of influential figures, making eradication efforts significantly more difficult.
They proposed creating a cartography and typology of fraud and fraudsters, emphasizing the localisation of fraud across the nation. “We are particularly concerned about the industrial sector, illegal trade, and manufacturing workshops,” they urged.
Consumer advocates pointed out that small-scale household fraud often overshadows the significant threats posed by powerful “barons” who intimidate inspectors.
“We have detected a manufacturing workshop and identified an agent supplying a neighbourhood,” they noted. “But the real barons are the ones who threaten inspectors with weapons, attempting to block legitimate access.”
They stressed that ordinary consumers lack the power to resist these operators, while ENEO agents encounter barriers during inspections.
“The big barons often intimidate agents, refusing them access,” a representative emphasized. “The government must take this seriously; that is where the problem lies, Mr. Minister.”
ENEO Agents disconnecting illegal connections in neighbourhoods
Concerns were also raised about internal issues within ENEO, including cancelled invoices and corruption. “There is significant internal fraud within ENEO, including the cancellation of invoices in their system. I speak from personal experience,” one association member said.
To improve reporting and engagement, they proposed establishing a dedicated free hotline accessible to all consumers, including those in remote areas lacking connections, to anonymously report fraud.
“A hotline for all consumers, even those in remote areas where ENEO does not exist, is essential,” they suggested.
It should be noted that the government of Cameroon on March 16, 2026 launched a nationwide crackdown on electricity fraud aimed at curbing practices that cost the energy sector more than FCFA 60 billion annually in lost revenue.
While launching an operation to begin cracking down on the electricity thieves, the Minister of Water and Energy, Gaston Eloundou Essomba acknowledged service quality issues. The Minister affirmed that the State would continue funding development. “Aware of the poor quality of services, the government will continue to finance the development of electricity infrastructure to permanently enhance public service,” he said.
This sustained campaign, involving ENEO, public authorities, and consumer groups, seeks to eradicate entrenched practices and foster a healthier sector for all Cameroonians. Citizens are encouraged to regularize their accounts and promptly report suspicions as the crackdown unfolds.
