Martinez Zogo Trial Continues with Key Testimonies and Missing Evidence

The special criminal hearing regarding the death of journalist Martinez Zogo resumed on September 14-15, 2026, at the Yaoundé Military Court. This trial has garnered significant public interest due to the circumstances surrounding Zogo's death and the implications for freedom of the press in Cameroon. The hearings are part of a broader investigation into allegations of torture and murder linked to influential figures in the country.

The trial has seen various witnesses, including military officials, providing testimonies that shed light on the investigation's progress. The proceedings are marked by intense scrutiny from both the public and media, reflecting the high stakes involved in the case. The involvement of high-profile individuals has raised questions about the integrity of the judicial process.

During the hearings, Lieutenant-Colonel Dieudonné Bialo, head of the Central Judicial Research Service (SCRJ), testified as the 35th witness. His statements focused on the investigative efforts surrounding the case, particularly the analysis of seized phones and digital data. However, he admitted to not having seen a critical video that allegedly documents the torture of Zogo, raising concerns about the thoroughness of the investigation.

A significant point of contention has been the disappearance of a phone linked to businessman Jean-Pierre Amougou Belinga, which is believed to contain crucial evidence related to the case. The court has been urged to investigate the circumstances surrounding this missing device, as it could provide direct insights into the events leading to Zogo's death. The absence of this evidence has raised questions about the integrity of the ongoing investigation.

The trial has sparked significant public interest and concern regarding press freedom in Cameroon. Activists and media organizations are closely monitoring the proceedings, advocating for transparency and accountability in the investigation. The case has become a symbol of the challenges faced by journalists in the country, highlighting the need for legal reforms to protect freedom of expression.

Legal representatives for the victims have expressed frustration over the handling of evidence, particularly the missing phone. They argue that the failure to recover this device undermines the credibility of the investigation and the judicial process. The ongoing trial is seen as a critical test for the Cameroonian justice system and its ability to address high-profile cases fairly.