Summary
Security forces in Benin are trying to find soldiers who attempted to overthrow the government and took hostages. The coup attempt was stopped with help from Nigeria, and Benin's president says the situation is now under control. Several people were arrested, and explosions were reported in the capital city, Cotonou.
Key Facts
- Soldiers tried to seize power in Benin early on Sunday, taking an unknown number of hostages.
- President Patrice Talon said that the situation is now under control.
- Nigeria helped Benin stop the coup by using fighter jets to target the coup plotters.
- Explosions were heard in Cotonou, possibly from airstrikes.
- Authorities have arrested 14 people linked to the attempted coup.
- The coup was reportedly led by Lt Col Pascal Tigri, whose location is currently unknown.
- Benin has been seen as relatively stable, but the region has experienced a series of coups recently.
- The coup plotters criticized President Talon's policies, including his management of the country's security and economic issues.
