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Ancien Commissariat de Police: A Glimpse into Douala's Colonial Past

Explore Douala's Ancien Commissariat de Police, a landmark of German colonial history, where echoes of resistance resonate through its halls.

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The Ancien Commissariat de Police, located on Rue Victoria in Douala, is a historical landmark dating back to the German colonial era. Once the city's police headquarters, the building is now home to administrative services of the Merchant Navy and stands as a reminder of a tumultuous period in Cameroon's history.

A brief summary to Ancien Commissariat de Police

  • 279 Rue Victoria, Douala, Bonanjo, CM

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the building's architecture and historical details.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around the Bonanjo district to explore other colonial-era buildings.
  • Reflect on the history of the site and the figures who resisted colonial rule.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the Akwa neighborhood, begin at the Akwa market. Proceed east on Rue de la Liberté until you reach the intersection with Rue Victoria. Turn left onto Rue Victoria and continue walking straight. The Ancien Commissariat de Police will be on your right at 279 Rue Victoria. Walking from the Akwa market should take approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    For a budget-friendly option, take a bus heading towards Bonanjo or Rue Victoria. Alight once you're in the Bonanjo area and make your way to Rue Victoria on foot. From the bus stop, it's roughly a 10-15 minute walk to Ancien Commissariat de Police. Bus fares typically range from 200 to 500 CFA per person.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available near major hotels and popular spots in Douala. Simply inform the driver that you wish to go to 'Ancien Commissariat de Police, 279 Rue Victoria'. Ensure you negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Depending on your starting location, the fare should be between 1,500 to 3,000 CFA. A 5km ride in Douala will cost approximately 1500 XAF.

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Discover more about Ancien Commissariat de Police

The Ancien Commissariat de Police, situated in Douala's Bonanjo district, is a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the city's colonial past. Constructed at the beginning of the 20th century by the German administration, it initially served as the city's central police station. The building's architecture reflects the Prussian style favored by the German colonizers of the time. However, the Ancien Commissariat de Police is more than just an architectural relic; it is a place marked by tragedy and resistance. In 1914, King Rudolf Douala Manga Bell and his secretary, Adolf Ngosso Din, were condemned to death here for opposing the German administration's land expropriation policies. They were subsequently hanged, near the building, for standing against the decree that displaced native populations from their ancestral lands. Today, the building houses the administrative services of the Merchant Navy. While it no longer functions as a police station, its historical importance remains palpable. A visit offers a chance to reflect on the complexities of Cameroon's colonial legacy and the sacrifices made by those who resisted foreign domination. The Ancien Commissariat stands as a silent witness to the struggles and transformations that have shaped Douala into the vibrant city it is today.

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