Authorities in Benin have arrested three men, including a former minister and the head of President Patrice Talon’s security, over allegations of plotting a coup, the state prosecutor announced.
Ex-Sports Minister Oswald Homeky was reportedly caught on Tuesday while handing over six bags of money to Col. Djimon Dieudonne Tevoedjre, the head of the Republican Guard, according to the prosecutor’s statement at a press conference. Investigators believe Col. Tevoedjre was being bribed to avoid resisting the planned coup, which was allegedly set for Friday.
Also arrested was businessman Olivier Boko, a known friend of President Talon who had recently expressed political ambitions. Boko’s lawyers and supporters have condemned the arrest, labeling it as an “abduction” and calling for his immediate release.
The state prosecutor confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify further suspects involved in the suspected coup plot.
Benin, once seen as a beacon of multi-party democracy, has faced growing concerns over autocratic tendencies under President Talon’s leadership. The president has previously announced that he will not seek a third term in the 2026 elections.
The arrest comes amid a surge in military takeovers in West and Central Africa, with eight successful coups and several attempts recorded since 2020.
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