About Cameroon's Correctional System
Cameroon's correctional system is managed by the Ministère de la Justice du Cameroun. For inmate searches, use the official contacts listed below or contact the facility directly using the phone numbers on this page. Where available, the facility listings below include addresses, inmate capacity, and descriptive information.
For US citizens detained in Cameroon, contact US Embassy Cameroon at +237 222 220 1500 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US.
Cameroon Resources & Legal Services
Key Cameroon Prison Contacts
| Agency / Contact | Location | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ministère de la Justice du Cameroun | Cameroon | See website | Visit Site |
| US Embassy Cameroon | Cameroon | +237 222 220 1500 | Visit Site |
| US State Dept Emergency (from US) | Washington DC | 1-888-407-4747 | Visit Site |
Showing 3 facilities in Cameroon
Buea Central Prison
Facility
Closed
Prison in Buea capital of the South West region. Has held large numbers of Anglophone separatist prisoners since the Anglophone Crisis erupted in 2016.
New Bell Prison
Facility
Closed
Cameroon's second most notorious prison. Located in the New Bell district of Douala. Houses sentenced and remand prisoners. Built by the French for 700 but holds around 7000. Documented for catastrophic overcrowding and poor conditions.
Kondengui Central Prison
Facility
Closed
Cameroon's largest prison. Located in Kondengui district of Yaound�. Capacity 1500 but holds around 8000. Extremely overcrowded. Has held political prisoners Anglophone separatists and opposition leaders including Maurice Kamto. Site of multiple riots.
Cameroon Prison FAQ
Browse the facility listings on this page to find the specific institution, then contact them directly using the phone number listed. For US citizens detained in Cameroon, contact US Embassy Cameroon at +237 222 220 1500 immediately.
Contact US Embassy Cameroon at +237 222 220 1500 immediately, or call the US State Department Citizens Emergency Center at 1-888-407-4747 from the US. Consular officers can visit detained Americans, provide lists of local attorneys, and notify family members.
Visitation rules vary significantly by facility and security level in Cameroon. You will typically need to be on an approved visitor list, present valid government-issued photo ID, and comply with the facility's dress code. Contact the specific facility directly using the phone number listed on this page to confirm current visitation hours and requirements.
Contact Barreau du Cameroun for referrals to qualified criminal defense attorneys in Cameroon. The US Embassy can also provide a list of local attorneys. You can also find a criminal lawyer through our directory.
Each Cameroon facility has its own approved methods for receiving inmate funds. Contact the facility directly using the phone numbers listed on this page for current accepted payment methods, deposit limits, and procedures.