A man was taken into custody in Yaoundé after attempting to present what he claimed were official presidential decrees on national radio. The documents, which included a supposed appointment decree for a vice president, were later verified as counterfeit by authorities.

On June 12, 2026, Johann Adriel Sitchom Kuate arrived at the national broadcaster’s headquarters in Yaoundé’s Nlongkak district, presenting documents he insisted were legitimate. Witnesses noted their professional appearance, including one decree bearing the signature of President Paul Biya.

Under standard protocol, such decrees are read on air to inform the public. However, CRTV staff, sensing irregularities, alerted top government officials—including those accompanying President Biya in Geneva since June 7. Investigations confirmed the documents were fabricated, with the name on the decree matching that of Johann Adriel Sitchom Kuate.

Was this a lone act of deception or part of a broader scheme aimed at undermining state institutions? Authorities have charged Kuate with attempting to compromise national security, a serious allegation he will now face in court.