Authorities in Benin have placed former defence minister and opposition politician Candide Azannai in pre-trial detention following investigations into a failed coup earlier this month.
Security officials detained Azannai on Saturday as part of a wider probe into the attempted takeover that shook the West African country in early December.
Charges Linked to Coup Investigation
According to court sources, prosecutors accused Azannai of plotting against the state and incitement to rebellion.
Security agents arrested him last week at his party’s headquarters in Cotonou.
Although Azannai publicly condemned the coup attempt, investigators still linked him to the unfolding inquiry.
Arrests Follow Foiled Takeover
The detention comes days after authorities jailed about 30 people, mostly soldiers, on treason charges connected to the failed uprising.
On December 7, mutinous soldiers appeared on national television and claimed they had overthrown President Patrice Talon.
However, loyalist forces quickly regained control and defeated the plotters.
Nigerian air force support helped suppress the attempted takeover, officials said.
Casualties and Suspects on the Run
Several people died during the uprising, according to security officials.
Some suspects, including alleged coup leader Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, remain at large.
After hours of questioning at Benin’s anti-terrorism court, police escorted Azannai away at dawn.
Authorities then transferred him into custody pending further legal proceedings.
Political Context in Benin
President Talon has received praise for driving economic growth in Benin.
However, critics accuse his administration of increasing authoritarian tendencies.
In recent years, Benin has also faced rising jihadist attacks in its northern regions.
Talon is expected to step down in April after completing his second term in office.
