Benin Coup Attempt Thwarted – Minister’s Statement

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* Coup Attempt in Benin: A military group calling itself the Military Committee for Refoundation has ‍announced the removal of President Patrice Talon and all state​ institutions.
* Military Leadership: Lt. Col.⁣ Pascal Tigri has been ‌appointed president of ⁣the military committee.
* Gunfire and Hostages: Gunshots were reported near the president’s residence in cotonou, and some journalists at the state broadcaster were held hostage.
* International response:

​ * The French embassy reported gunfire near the presidential​ residence.
* The Russian embassy urged ⁣its citizens to stay indoors.
‌ ‌ * The U.S.Embassy advised citizens to avoid Cotonou, ‌especially⁢ the area⁤ around the presidential compound.
* President’s Status: A presidential advisor told the BBC⁤ that President Talon is safe and currently at the French embassy.
*​ Media ⁣Interruption: The signal to state television and radio was temporarily cut off⁤ but has since been restored.
* Ancient context: Benin gained ⁣independence from France in 1960.