Soldiers briefly claim to oust President Patrice Talon in Porto-Novo before loyalist forces regain control, confirming the president is safe.
Confusion gripped Benin Republic on Sunday after a group of soldiers announced they had toppled President Patrice Talon, claiming to have seized power in an early-morning coup attempt in Porto-Novo.
According to security sources, the unrest began with an assault on the president’s residence before dawn. The mutinous soldiers, led by Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, later stormed the national television station, where they declared President Talon “removed from office” and announced the dissolution of all state institutions.
However, the situation quickly shifted as soldiers loyal to the government pushed back against the takeover. Government-aligned military officials later confirmed that the coup attempt had been thwarted, assuring the public that President Talon remains safe and in control.
Authorities have not yet disclosed details on arrests or the current whereabouts of Lt. Col. Tigri and the military involved in the attempted takeover. Tensions remain high as security forces continue operations to stabilize the capital.
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