BENIN COUP: 30 People, Mostly Soldiers Jailed.

Authorities in the Benin Republic have ordered the detention of at least 30 individuals, most of whom are soldiers, over their alleged roles in a failed coup attempt earlier this month.

The arrests followed events on December 7, when a group of soldiers appeared on national television claiming that President Patrice Talon had been overthrown.

The plot was quickly neutralised by loyal security forces, with assistance from the Nigerian Air Force and French special forces. The clash reportedly resulted in several deaths, while the suspected ringleader, Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, and other rebel soldiers are still at large.

On Monday, the suspects were brought before a special prosecutor at the Court for Economic Crimes and Terrorism in Cotonou. After the hearing, they were placed in pre-trial detention the next day.

The accused are facing serious charges, including treason, murder and actions considered a threat to national security.

Meanwhile, Chabi Yayi, the son of former Beninese President and opposition leader Thomas Boni Yayi, who was earlier detained in connection with the alleged coup plot, was released on Monday after questioning. Despite his release, he remains under investigation, although the specific reasons have not been made public.

Chabi Yayi is believed to be linked to the opposition party led by his father. In recent times, President Talon has faced criticism from opponents who accuse him of governing in an authoritarian manner, despite Benin’s long-standing reputation as a democratic state.