Banknotes totaling 1.5 billion CFA francs were allegedly hidden in suitcases to finance a coup in Bénin, according to the special prosecutor. The announcement of the arrest of several high-profile figures close to the regime was made on Wednesday.
Among those implicated are former Sports Minister Oswald Homéky and the commander of Benin’s presidential guard. The coup was reportedly planned for September 27.
Special prosecutor Mario Metonou stated, “Starting from August 6, the individuals involved opened a bank account at NSIA Banque Côte d’Ivoire, with the Commander of the Republican Guard as the beneficiary.” He added that the account had an initial balance of 105 million CFA francs.
The alleged mastermind behind the plot is Olivier Boko, a wealthy businessman and close ally of President Patrice Talon, whose term is set to end in 2026. Many are left wondering about the shift in relations between the two, who have historically been aligned.
As of now, President Talon has not appointed a successor. More details about the attempted coup are expected to emerge after the Special Prosecutor hears from the defendants on Friday, September 27, reports Africanews correspondent Romuald Vissoh.