JUST IN: “The City and the Country Are Completely Secure” — Benin Presidency Confirms President Talon Safe as Army Regains Control

President Patrice Talon is safe, and the regular army is reasserting control after a brief mutiny by a group of soldiers who had claimed to overthrow him, the presidency confirmed on Sunday, December 7, 2025.

In a statement to AFP, the presidential office said the rebellious soldiers “only control the television” and reassured citizens that “the city and the country are completely secure.” Earlier reports indicated that the group had attacked President Talon’s residence in the Le Guézo neighborhood and taken over national TV, declaring themselves in charge of the government.

Authorities say loyalist forces have moved swiftly to regain key locations across Cotonou. While details on arrests or the number of soldiers involved have not been disclosed, the presidency emphasized that normal governance and public order have been restored.