President Patrice Talon Praises Loyal Army After Foiled Coup Attempt in Benin

Benin’s President Patrice Talon has praised the country’s military leadership after security forces stopped an attempted coup on Sunday. He also promised firm consequences for the soldiers involved.

A group calling itself the Military Committee for Refoundation seized state television early in the morning and announced that the government had been dissolved. Hours later, the interior minister declared the attempt had been defeated.

In a national address on Sunday evening, Talon thanked the military for its quick action.

“I would like to commend the sense of duty of our army and its leaders who remained republican and loyal to the nation. With them, we stood firm, recaptured our positions, and cleared the last pockets of resistance from the mutants. This commitment and mobilisation allowed us to thwart these adventurers and save our country. This treachery will not go unpunished.”

Talon also expressed sympathy for those affected, referring to victims and individuals reportedly held by fleeing soldiers. He did not give details on casualties or hostages.

Local media report that 13 soldiers have been arrested. It is not yet known whether Lt Col Pascal Tigri, the figure who appeared on state television earlier in the day, is among them.

Gunfire was heard in parts of Cotonou, and soldiers were seen patrolling several areas, though the capital has largely remained calm. Broadcast signals to state television and public radio, which were cut during the takeover, have since been restored.