Madagascar detains French ex-serviceman over alleged destabilisation plot
Summary
Madagascar has arrested a former French soldier, Guy Baret, accusing him of planning to upset the country’s peace. The government also declared a French embassy staff member unwelcome, linking them to the same investigation.Key Facts
- Guy Baret, a former French national serviceman, is held in pretrial detention in a maximum-security prison in Madagascar.
- Authorities accuse Baret and others of spreading false information, planning to damage key infrastructure like power lines and plants, hiding wanted people, and crime conspiracy.
- The plot was reportedly planned for April 18.
- Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy, a Malagasy army officer, and other suspects are also involved.
- Two other suspects are under judicial supervision but are not seen as leaders of the plot.
- Madagascar’s current military ruler, President Michael Randrianirina, took power in October 2023 after protests ousted the previous leader, Andry Rajoelina.
- France denies any involvement in destabilizing Madagascar and protested the expulsion of its embassy official.
- Madagascar’s Foreign Ministry did not name the expelled French official or detail the reason for the decision.
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