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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 architecture with a poignant history.

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The Ancien Commissariat de Police, located in Douala's Bonanjo district, is a historical landmark dating back to the German colonial era. This early 20th-century building, now housing the Merchant Navy services, stands as a reminder of the city's complex history and colonial influences, marked by architectural details and a somber history.

A brief summary to Ancien Commissariat de Police

  • 279 Rue Victoria, Douala, Bonanjo, CM

Local tips

  • Take a walk around the Bonanjo district to see other examples of colonial architecture.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Doual'art and Palais des rois Bell to learn more about Douala's history.
  • Remember that the building is currently used by the Merchant Navy services, so be respectful of their operations.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are in the Akwa neighborhood, a vibrant commercial area, you can walk to the Ancien Commissariat de Police. Start at Place du Gouvernement and head east on Rue de la Liberté. Turn left onto Rue Victoria; the Ancien Commissariat de Police will be on your right at 279 Rue Victoria. The walk is approximately 15 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    While Douala doesn't have a formal public transit system, buses and shared taxis are available. Look for a bus or shared taxi heading towards Bonanjo. Ask the driver to drop you off near Rue Victoria. From there, walk towards 279 Rue Victoria. Bus fare is approximately 250 XAF.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Douala. Negotiate the fare before getting in. A short taxi ride from Akwa to the Ancien Commissariat de Police should cost around 1500 XAF. Be aware that traffic can affect the price and duration of the ride.

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Discover more about Ancien Commissariat de Police

The Ancien Commissariat de Police, or former police station, is a significant historical monument in Douala, Cameroon, located in the administrative district of Bonanjo. Constructed in the early 20th century during the German colonial administration, the building served as the city's first police station. Its architecture reflects the German colonial style of the period, primarily built with terracotta, sand, and wood. The building features a gabled roof and lean-to, with pillars and pilasters supporting the structure. However, the Ancien Commissariat is also known for a darker chapter in Douala's history. In 1914, it was the site where King Rudolf Douala Manga Bell and his secretary, Adolf Ngosso Din, were condemned to death and hanged. Their crime was opposing a decree issued in 1910 by Governor Ebermaier, which ordered the expropriation and displacement of native people from the areas of Joss, Bonapriso, Akwa, and Deido. The decree violated a prior treaty that granted land sovereignty to the Duala kings. The German administration planned to seize land along the Wouri River, separating European residences from the indigenous population with a one-kilometer buffer zone. Today, the building houses the administrative services of the Merchant Navy. While the interior may not be accessible for extensive tours, the exterior remains a compelling reminder of Douala's past.

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