The Government of Benin Republic executed at least 30 individuals, predominantly soldiers, on Tuesday. These individuals are accused of being involved in a foiled coup attempt that occurred earlier this month.
Recall that on December 7, soldiers appeared on national television to announce the deposition of President Patrice Talon.
However, the attempted coup was swiftly thwarted by loyalist army forces, with the assistance of the Nigerian air force and French special forces.
The coup resulted in several fatalities, and the alleged coup leader, Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, along with other mutinous soldiers, remains at large.
On Monday, at least 30 individuals accused of involvement in the coup appeared before a special prosecutor for the court in Cotonou. This court specializes in economic crimes and terrorism.
Following their hearing, the accused individuals were reportedly placed in pre-trial detention the next day.
They are facing charges of treason, murder, and endangering state security.
Meanwhile, Chabi Yayi, the son of former Beninese President and current opposition leader Thomas Boni Yayi, who had been previously arrested, was released on Monday. He was questioned but remains under prosecution in connection with the coup attempt. The reasons for his continued prosecution are not publicly disclosed.
Chabi Yayi is alleged to be a member of the opposition party led by his father.
Critics of President Talon accuse him of authoritarianism in a country that was once celebrated for its democratic dynamism.
