Benin Republic Says Attempted Coup Crushed, Ringleader on the Run

Authorities in the Republic of Benin say a coup attempt launched in the early hours of Sunday has been foiled, with the alleged ringleader, Colonel Pascal Tigri, now on the run.

The incident unfolded when a small group of mutinous soldiers stormed the National Television Station in Cotonou, briefly disrupting transmission and announcing their rebellion. Their attempt to push further reportedly failed after they were unable to gain access to President Patrice Talon’s residence.

Benin’s Minister of Interior, Alassane Seidou, later appeared on national television to confirm that the uprising had been decisively suppressed. He said loyal security forces were quick to counter the mutineers and secure key state institutions.

“Early on Sunday morning, 7 December 2025, a small group of soldiers launched a mutiny aimed at destabilising the state and its institutions,” Seidou said.
“Faced with this situation, the Beninese armed forces and their leadership, true to their oath, remained committed to the republic. Their response allowed them to retain control of the situation and foil the attempt. The government therefore urges the population to go about their activities as normal.”

Security sources say several members of the rebel group have already been arrested. Colonel Tigri reportedly fled as loyal forces closed in.

According to 24 Hours in Benin, the National Guard swiftly surrounded the seized TV station and engaged in negotiations with the remaining mutineers, who had barricaded themselves inside.

Though the uprising caused brief tension, calm has since returned to Cotonou. Authorities say constitutional order was never under serious threat, and investigations are ongoing to determine the motives behind the failed coup and identify any external or internal collaborators.

The attempted putsch is one of the few notable security incidents under President Talon’s administration. Officials maintain that the swift neutralisation of the threat demonstrates the resilience and loyalty of Benin's security institutions.