Deadly Benin Coup Leaves Casualties as Mutiny Leader Flees

Benin Coup Foiled After Hours-Long Standoff, Mutiny Leader Hunted

A short-lived military coup in Benin was crushed by loyalist forces. The failed attempt occurred on Sunday, December 8th, in the capital city of Cotonou. Government authorities confirmed there were casualties on both sides. The apparent leader of the mutiny is now on the run.

This event is the latest in a wave of political instability across West Africa. According to Reuters, loyal troops were supported by forces from neighboring Nigeria. The swift regional response helped prevent a longer crisis.

Benin coup

How the Attempted Takeover Unfolded

The coup began in the early morning hours. A group of soldiers, led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri, stormed the national television station. They announced the dissolution of President Patrice Talon’s government.

Tigri was formerly a member of the president’s own protection detail. Their broadcast declared a new “Committee for Refoundation.” The situation shifted dramatically within hours.

Benin’s military, with backing from Nigerian air power, moved to retake control. By Sunday afternoon, the government declared the coup had been foiled. Armed forces from Ivory Coast and other ECOWAS nations also provided support.

Regional Forces Rally to Defend Democracy

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) deployed a standby force. This marked a significant intervention by the regional bloc. Analysts note Nigeria has a strategic interest in stabilizing its borders.

According to the Associated Press, the bloc’s response aimed to preserve democratic order. The action contrasts with its more hesitant approach to recent coups in Gabon and Guinea-Bissau. This inconsistency has drawn criticism from some security experts.

The situation in Cotonou was calm by Monday. Soldiers patrolled the streets as the government launched an investigation. President Talon vowed to punish those responsible and called the event a “senseless adventure.”

The foiled Benin coup underscores the fragile political climate in West Africa. It also highlights the critical role of regional cooperation in crisis response. The ongoing manhunt for the mutiny leader remains a top priority for Beninese authorities.

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Q1: How long did the Benin coup attempt last?

The takeover attempt lasted only a few hours. It began with a TV station seizure in the early morning of December 8th. Government forces had reclaimed control by that same afternoon.

Q2: Were there any casualties reported?

Yes. Benin’s government confirmed there were “casualties on both sides.” They have not yet released specific numbers. The statement followed clashes between mutineers and loyalist troops.

Q3: Which countries helped stop the coup?

Nigeria provided crucial military air support. Forces from Ivory Coast, Ghana, and Sierra Leone also assisted under an ECOWAS mandate. This regional cooperation was key to the swift resolution.

Q4: Who was leading the mutinous soldiers?

The apparent leader was Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri. He was formerly part of President Talon’s security detail. Authorities confirm he is currently on the run and is the subject of an intensive manhunt.

Q5: Why is this coup attempt significant for West Africa?

It represents another test for regional stability. Successful ECOWAS intervention may signal a renewed push to defend democracies. The event occurs just months before Benin’s scheduled presidential election in April.