Benin’s Court for the Repression of Economic Offences and Terrorism (CRIET) has ordered the detention of former defence minister Candide Azannaï, who also heads the opposition party Restore Hope.
Azannaï faces charges of “conspiracy against state authority” and “incitement to rebellion” in connection with the investigation into the attempted coup announced on national television on December 7, which was swiftly thwarted by government forces with support from Nigeria and France.
He was arrested in recent days at his party headquarters in Cotonou before being brought before the court, which ordered his pre-trial detention.
In parallel, Beninese authorities said five additional soldiers have been arrested on charges of “failure to report crimes”, while dozens of other suspects are being held on accusations ranging from treason to threats against state security.
The court has also issued an international arrest warrant for prominent activist Kemi Seba, over his alleged role in supporting the failed coup attempt.
