Benin Republic Foils Alleged Coup Attempt, Detains High-Ranking Officials

Benin Republic Foils Alleged Coup Attempt, Detains High-Ranking Officials

Authorities in Benin Republic have announced the successful thwarting of a planned coup that was set for Friday. Prosecutors revealed on Wednesday that the alleged plot involved high-ranking officials and was uncovered just days before the intended event…..CONTINUE READING 

Elonm Metonou, a special prosecutor at Benin’s court for financial crimes and terrorism, disclosed that former sports minister Oswald Homeky was arrested on Tuesday night. Homeky was reportedly caught transferring six bags filled with cash to Djimon Tevoedjre, the commander of the republican guard, who is responsible for President Patrice Talon’s security.

“It appears the Republican Guard commander was engaged by Minister Oswald Homeky and Olivier Boko to carry out a coup by force on September 27, 2024,” Metonou stated. The prosecutor revealed that the seized bags contained approximately 1.5 billion West African CFA francs, roughly equivalent to $2.5 million.

Investigations revealed that a bank account was opened in Côte d’Ivoire under Tevoedjre’s name on August 6, with funds transported in Homeky’s vehicle, a Toyota Prado that had fake license plates.

Olivier Boko, a businessman and close associate of President Talon, was also implicated in the conspiracy. He was arrested earlier in the week in Cotonou, Benin’s commercial hub. Boko, who has expressed presidential ambitions for the 2026 election, allegedly collaborated with Homeky to bribe the military commander to ensure no resistance during the coup.

Authorities are continuing their investigations to track down other individuals involved in the plot. Since 2020, several West African nations have experienced successful coups or attempted military takeovers. President Talon, who has been in power since 2016, has faced criticism for allegedly dismantling democratic institutions and consolidating his power.