Benin Coup Attempt: Manhunt Intensifies as Rewards Offered for Key Suspects
Benin authorities are escalating efforts to apprehend the alleged masterminds behind the attempted coup d’état on December 7, 2025. A nationwide manhunt, accompanied by a substantial reward of 20 million CFA francs (approximately 30,000 euros) per suspect, was launched on March 2, 2026, targeting nine individuals believed to be central to the plot.
The Failed Takeover: A Timeline
The attempted coup began with an attack on President Patrice Talon’s residence in Cotonou, coordinated by Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri and a group of soldiers. Simultaneously, mutinous soldiers seized control of the Société de radio et de télévision du Bénin (ORTB), taking the Chief of Army Staff, General Abou Issa and the head of the National Guard, Colonel Gomina Faizou, hostage.
From the national television studios, Tigri and his associates declared a military committee for refoundation, announcing the deposition of President Talon, the suspension of the Constitution, and the closure of borders. However, the coup was swiftly countered by loyalist forces, aided by aerial support from Nigeria and French special forces deployed from Abidjan. By midday, the Minister of the Interior, Alassane Seidou, announced the suppression of the coup attempt and the liberation of the held generals. The perpetrators subsequently fled.
The Nine Suspects and the Search
While over a dozen military personnel and thirty civilians, including former Defense Minister Candide Azannaï and former MP Soumaïla Sounon Boké, have been arrested, the key figures remain at large. The nine individuals currently being sought are: Pascal Tigri, Castro Sambiéni, Ousmane Samary, Bernard Sanhouékoua, Moussa Noma Rafiou, Dassoudo Démanmon, Issa Soumanou, Setondji Laurier, and Osseni Yacoubou Moudachirou.
The Centre National d’Investigations Numériques (CNIN) released the official wanted notice on February 27, 2026, including photographs and identities. Authorities are offering 20 million CFA francs for credible information leading to the location of any of the suspects, with the possibility of increased rewards for information directly resulting in an arrest. Anonymous reporting is guaranteed, and international arrest warrants have reportedly been issued.
Political Context and Upcoming Elections
This renewed push to apprehend the coup plotters coincides with preparations for presidential elections scheduled for April 2026, in which President Talon will not be participating as he completes his second term. The timing suggests a desire to stabilize the political landscape before the elections and demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining constitutional order.
FAQ
Q: What is the reward for information leading to the arrest of the suspects?
A: 20 million CFA francs (approximately 30,000 euros) per suspect.
Q: Which countries assisted Benin in quelling the coup attempt?
A: Nigeria and France provided support.
Q: Are elections planned in Benin?
A: Yes, presidential elections are scheduled for April 2026.
Q: Is anonymity guaranteed for informants?
A: Yes, the police guarantee anonymity for those providing information.
Did you know? The attempted coup involved the seizure of the national television station, ORTB, to broadcast the coup leaders’ declaration.
Pro Tip: If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of the suspects, contact the dedicated phone number provided by Benin authorities.
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