Benin Coup Attempt Thwarted – Minister’s Statement
- * 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.
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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.