Gov’t launches crackdown on breasts, buttocks enlargement procedures.

Officials have already filed complaints against two individuals, suspected of engaging in the practice, outside the legal framework.

The latest development follows a July 16, 2026, press release, signed by the Minister of Public Health, Dr Manaouda Malachie.

The minister’s release warns of the increasing promotion and injection of products marketed as “Body Filler,” on social media platforms and in certain private spaces across the country. 

The products, the minister said, are being promoted as a means of increasing the volume of buttocks, breasts and other parts of the body. 

Dr Manaouda Malachie stated that body filler injections constitute medical procedures and must be carried out exclusively by duly qualified health professionals in authorised health facilities operating in accordance with existing regulations.

According to him, authorities have observed an increasing number of advertisements and activities on social media platforms and in certain private venues, encouraging the injection of so-called body filler products. 

Dr Manaouda Malachie warned that individuals engaging in such practices outside the legal framework risk facing sanctions, with the ministry reserving the right to refer offenders to competent authorities.

The minister highlighted several health risks associated with the use of unapproved products or procedures carried out by unqualified persons. 

He cited severe infections, allergic reactions, chronic pain, deformities, migration of injected substances within the body, tissue necrosis and other potentially life-threatening complications.

The minister called on the public to exercise vigilance regarding body filler offers circulated on social media or conducted in unauthorised locations. 

He reiterated that cosmetic medical procedures should only be performed within regulated healthcare environments. 

Dr Manaouda further advised individuals considering cosmetic enhancement procedures to consult qualified physicians or surgeons working in authorised health facilities. 

He added that competent services within the Ministry of Public Health are carrying out necessary checks and inspections, warning that violations of existing regulations will attract administrative and judicial measures provided for under the law.

Complaints filed against two individuals

The warning from the ministry came on the same day the Cameroon Medical Council, CMC, announced that complaints had been lodged with competent authorities against two individuals over activities that may constitute the illegal practice of medicine.

In a notice signed by the President of the CMC, Dr Rodolphe Fonkoua, the Council identified the individuals as Kingsly Nembo and Manuella Nimpa, also known by the pseudonym “La Croqueuse de Diamants”.

According to the CMC, Kingsly Nembo publicly presents himself under the title of “Doctor” and offers medical and aesthetic procedures despite not being registered on the Roll of the Cameroon Medical Council.

The Council also cited reports concerning Manuella Nimpa involving the performance of invasive aesthetic procedures, including body filler injections, outside the legal framework governing such practices.

The CMC stated that both cases have been referred to the competent authorities, which are expected to conduct investigations to establish the facts and determine accountability in accordance with the laws of the Republic.

The CMC meanwhile reaffirmed its commitment to combating illegal medical practice, protecting public health and preserving the integrity of the medical profession. 

The Council encouraged healthcare professionals and members of the public to report any suspected cases of illegal medical practice so that appropriate action can be taken.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3849 of Thursday July 16, 2026