Benin’s authorities report that Cotonou is calm after security forces, backed by special units from two allied countries, pushed back what officials describe as an “invasion operation under the cover of a coup”, announcing the arrest of Burkinabè soldiers and the ongoing pursuit of remaining fighters.
According to government and security sources, loyalist units re‑established control in key areas of Cotonou after a group of soldiers announced on state television that they had seized power, prompting fears of a successful coup in the West African nation. Officials now say the city is secure and that normal activities are resuming, even as operations continue away from the commercial center.
The armed forces, supported by special forces from at least two partner states, are reported to be tracking hostile elements believed to have crossed into Benin from neighboring territory, with authorities characterizing the events as an external invasion masked as a domestic power grab. Regional insecurity tied to militant and political instability in parts of the Sahel has raised concern in Benin for several years, particularly along its northern borders with Burkina Faso and Niger.
Officials say more than a dozen suspects have been detained in connection with the events, including Burkinabè soldiers now under arrest as investigations focus on possible cross‑border involvement in the failed operation. Benin’s government has vowed that those responsible will face justice, while regional and international bodies continue to call for constitutional order to be upheld in the country.
