Benin has jailed 30 individuals, mostly soldiers, in connection with the failed coup attempt that shook the country on 7 December, AFP reports. During the attempt, the rebels briefly took control of state television and announced the dissolution of the government. The coup was swiftly suppressed by loyalist forces, supported by airstrikes and military assistance from Nigeria and other West African allies, with France providing logistical aid. The detained soldiers appeared in court on Tuesday for a pre-trial hearing and now face charges of treason, murder, and endangering state security.
Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, identified as the alleged leader of the coup, remains at large. Beninese authorities claim he fled to Lomé, the capital of Togo, and have formally requested his extradition, along with that of other fugitive soldiers.
According to the accused, the coup aimed to protest President Patrice Talon’s handling of security in northern Benin, cuts to health care and public services, and restrictions on political activities. The government has vowed to pursue all those involved and reinforce stability amid regional security concerns.
