Benin Coup Attempt Foiled as Hostages Regain Freedom and Regional Tension Rises
Fresh details emerged on Tuesday from Cotonou where authorities confirmed that the attempted military takeover in Benin Republic had been contained after loyalist forces regained control of strategic facilities. The dramatic events, which began with mutinous soldiers seizing the national television station and declaring the government overthrown, prompted a swift and forceful response from security units. Officials reported that hostages taken during the raid on the broadcaster were eventually freed unharmed after loyal forces overpowered the coup elements. Several suspects were arrested and the situation stabilized, although the government acknowledged that casualties were recorded on both sides during the confrontation. The attempted coup rippled beyond Benin’s borders. Security sources disclosed that neighboring countries heightened surveillance of their shared frontiers, and airspace monitoring was tightened as a precaution. International partners also responded, with some foreign missions reviewing their travel guidance for the country in light of the unrest. Financial markets reacted sharply. Benin’s international bonds slipped amid investor uncertainty, reflecting skepticism about short term political stability. Analysts noted that the instability, though swiftly curtailed, has placed pressure on the government ahead of scheduled elections. Authorities in Cotonou have begun interrogations of arrested soldiers and assured citizens that control has been fully restored. Yet beneath official assurances lies a lingering sense of unease, as the country faces renewed questions about unity within its security ranks.
| 2025-12-09 08:55:24