An investigation involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, alongside the FBI and Diplomatic Security Service, has resulted in the federal indictment of Eric Tano Tataw, a Cameroonian national residing in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Tataw, also known as "the Garri Master," faces charges for conspiring to support armed separatist groups in Cameroon and making threats against Cameroonian civilians.
ICE HSI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy stated, "The indictment of Eric Tataw reflects the unwavering commitment of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations to combat transnational crime and pursue justice for victims around the world." He added that "although residing in Maryland, Tataw is alleged to have played a significant role in promoting violence and human rights violations in Cameroon by supporting a separatist movement."
According to court documents, Tataw is accused of offering material support to separatist groups in the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon, known as "Amba Boys." Since April 2018, Tataw allegedly provided financial and logistical support to these groups, who aim to secede and establish a new country called "Ambazonia."
The indictment claims that Tataw encouraged violence against Cameroonian civilians, including murder, kidnapping, and maiming. He reportedly referred to mutilation practices as "Garriing," a term he coined, and used social media to promote his views and solicit funds for the separatists' cause. From 2018 to 2020, Tataw and his associates allegedly raised over $110,000 to arm the separatists.
Authorities, including McCarthy, Kelly O. Hayes, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, Matthew R. Galeotti, and Sue J. Bai, announced the indictment. The public is encouraged to report any criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line.
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