Benin Republic authorities have reportedly foiled a coup attempt aimed at unseating President Patrice Talon. The alleged plot involved Oswald Homeky, a former sports minister, and Djimon Tevoedjre, the commander of the presidential guard. Homeky was reportedly caught delivering six bags of cash containing 1.5 billion CFA francs (around $2.5 million) to Tevoedjre.
Authorities claim the suspects opened a bank account in Côte d’Ivoire under the commander's name and used a vehicle with fake license plates to transport the money. Another key figure in the plot, Olivier Boko, a businessman and long-time friend of Talon, was also arrested. Boko had declared his intention to run for the presidency in 2026, raising speculation about his motives.
This alleged coup attempt comes against the backdrop of increasing criticism of Talon's leadership, which some observers describe as authoritarian. Benin's foiled coup is notable, as neighboring West African countries have seen a wave of military takeovers in recent years.