Authorities in the Republic of Benin have identified Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri, the alleged ringleader of last week’s failed coup attempt, as having sought refuge in neighbouring Togo, prompting calls for his immediate extradition. Beninese officials say Tigri and other suspected plotters are hiding in the Lomé 2 area of Togo’s capital and have requested cooperation from Togolese authorities to apprehend and return them. The coup attempt unfolded on December 7, when a small group of soldiers briefly seized control of state television and declared the removal of President Patrice Talon from office. The effort was quickly disrupted by loyalist forces, assisted by support from regional troops and logistical help from France. A number of suspects were arrested in the aftermath, but Tigri eluded capture and his location has been the focus of intense attention.
Beninese government communications have described the mutiny as a serious breach of constitutional order and reiterated that those responsible will face consequences. Officials have underscored the importance of regional cooperation in addressing such security challenges, particularly as West Africa continues to grapple with a recent spate of coup attempts across the region.
Togo’s foreign ministry has not publicly commented on the allegations or confirmed whether it will comply with extradition requests. The dispute has the potential to strain diplomatic relations between the two neighbouring countries, highlighting the broader regional stakes attached to efforts to contain military interventions and uphold democratic governance.
