Benin Thwarts Coup Attempt Amid Rising Tensions

Benin President Patrice Talon announced that a coup attempt by military officers was thwarted, restoring stability after gunfire erupted in Cotonou. Talon promised to punish those involved, as regional bodies condemned the attempt. Elections scheduled for April create additional tensions.

Benin's President, Patrice Talon, declared on Sunday that the government and armed forces had successfully thwarted a coup attempt initiated by a faction within the military. Talon vowed that the perpetrators would face consequences for their actions, which aimed to destabilize the West African country.

The coup attempt unfolded with gunfire ringing through several neighborhoods in Cotonou, Benin's largest city. Soldiers briefly seized control of state television before forces loyal to Talon regained their positions. The incident marks a significant threat to democracy in a nation that has enjoyed relative stability compared to its neighbors.

As authorities arrested 14 individuals involved in the coup plot, West African nations and the African Union strongly condemned the actions. The incident comes ahead of a presidential election set for April, adding to ongoing concerns about security and political unrest in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)