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Benin Says Military Mutiny Foiled After Soldiers Seize State TV

The thwarted putsch underscores regional coup pressures ahead of early‑2026 elections.

Overview

  • Authorities said a small group of soldiers briefly took over public broadcaster RTB before loyalist forces restored service and control.
  • At least 13 participants were detained after the takeover, while alleged ringleader Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri was reported to have fled.
  • President Patrice Talon was reported safe by AFP citing his entourage as security forces secured key sites in Cotonou.
  • Gunfire was reported near Camp Guezo as foreign embassies issued safety alerts and videos showed armored vehicles in the streets.
  • ECOWAS and the African Union condemned the attempt and expressed support for constitutional order as investigations continue ahead of the 2026 vote.