Approximately 200 West African soldiers, mainly from Nigeria and Ivory Coast, have arrived in Benin to bolster government efforts following a foiled coup attempt last Sunday, according to Benin's foreign minister.
The coup was thwarted when Nigeria dispatched fighter jets to drive rebel soldiers from a military base and state television headquarters, both sites of the attempted takeover.
Up until now, officials had not disclosed the number of foreign troops present in the country, although reports suggest this strength may fluctuate. Foreign Affairs Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari stated during a press briefing that some of the troops would remain to assist in a 'sweep and clean-up operation'.
A manhunt has been initiated to track down the dissenters, with the coup's leader allegedly seeking refuge in neighboring Togo. The rebels alleged their actions were necessary due to President Patrice Talon's poor management of the nation's deteriorating security situation, especially in the north.
The intervention from Nigeria and other countries under the auspices of the Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) aims to secure essential installations and deter any resurgence of violence.
Benin's military, regarded as a key ally of the West, has faced increased pressure following a wave of successful coups across the region. Bakari praised Ecowas as a vital instrument for defending democracy amid growing concerns of military takeovers in West Africa.
Looking ahead, discussions are ongoing concerning the duration of troop presence, with decisions to be made in collaboration with Benin’s security forces.
