Benin detains dozens over alleged failed coup attempt

(MENAFN) Authorities in Benin have detained around 30 individuals for their alleged role in a recent coup attempt that shook the West African country, according to reports. Most of the suspected plotters are soldiers, and they appeared before the Special Criminal Court (CRIET) in Cotonou, the nation’s economic capital. They face charges including treason, murder, and endangering state security, and were placed in pre-trial detention following the hearing.

On December 7, a group of soldiers briefly seized control of the state broadcaster, announcing the removal of President Patrice Talon, the suspension of the constitution, and the dissolution of state institutions. They named Colonel Pascal Tigri to lead their short-lived administration, calling it the Military Committee for Refoundation. The coup was swiftly countered by loyalist forces, assisted by Nigerian allies, and Tigri reportedly fled to Togo.

The clashes left several people dead, including the wife of Talon’s military chief of staff, General Bertin Bada, and others were injured near the presidential palace and military sites. President Talon, who has led Benin since 2016 and is set to step down after elections in April 2026, pledged to hold those responsible accountable.

Chabi Yayi, son of former president and opposition figure Thomas Boni Yayi, was arrested shortly after the coup attempt and released the following day. He is reportedly facing prosecution in connection with the plot, though specific charges remain undisclosed.

The coup attempt drew regional condemnation, with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) putting a standby force on alert to support Benin’s army. Nigeria also approved deploying troops for a peace mission to assist Benin in maintaining constitutional order.

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