Benin Declares Three Soldiers Wanted Following Failed Coup

Benin’s authorities have launched a nationwide search for three soldiers linked to Sunday’s failed coup, with Lieutenant Colonel Tigri Pascal identified as the alleged ringleader. The announcement was made after Nigeria’s presidential aide on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, posted images of the wanted officers on X, naming Pascal along with Ousmane Samary and Sambieni Castro.

The trio allegedly led a group calling itself the Military Committee for Refoundation (CMR), which briefly appeared on state television to announce that President Patrice Talon had been removed from office. Gunfire was later reported near Camp Guezo, close to the president’s residence, prompting concern among diplomatic missions.

Benin’s interior minister, Alassane Seidou, later confirmed that loyalist forces had swiftly contained the mutiny. He described the incident as an attempt by a small faction of soldiers to destabilize national institutions. Government spokesperson Wilfried Houngbedji said around 14 people have been arrested, though further details were not released.

President Talon addressed the nation on Sunday, assuring citizens that the situation was fully under control. He praised the armed forces for acting decisively to prevent what he called “treachery,” adding that those responsible would face consequences.

International partners echoed support for the government. The US Embassy said calm had returned to Cotonou, while UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the attempt to undermine democratic governance, warning of the risks such actions pose to regional stability.

Two high-ranking officers who were taken hostage during the unrest have since been freed, marking another sign of restored order as the investigation into the coup plot continues.