The need to know the exact number of tourists visiting Cameroon, ensuring their security, revenue creation, among others, according to the Littoral Regional Delegate of Tourism and Leisure, Gerôme Ngah Obiaga account for the tracking down and closing up of clandestine operators plaguing this sector.

Complemented by two controllers from the Ministry, a mixed commission made up of regional controllers and the Forces of Law and Order toured the city of Douala for the last part of the exercise. Though, this had been preceded by a radio, TV and newspaper sensitisation campaign for owner or promoters of such structures to regularise their business units.

In contextualisation the Ministry's action, the head of the Commission, Denis Ebong Ebong explained that the operation targeted mostly business services that offer lodging facilities like motels and hotels. Following a list of over 150 shortlisted business units in Douala and more than 20 in the Moungo, their visit had two main objectives. The first concerns facilities that are already operational, to check the authorisation documents; while the second motive, which applies to construction sites to harbour leisure facilities, is to check the respect of internal norms governing this sector.

The absence of any of the above recommendations, met with a financial sanction. In the case of operating illegally, the fine is up to CFA two million francs. As for non-authorised construction sites, the amount is calculated by multiply each square metre by CFA 1000 per the entire surface area, added Musonge George, Commission member. Friday October 19, saw the shutting down of eight structures.