Nigerian Air Force has carried out a series of air attacks against soldiers who tried to flee after the failed coup in Benin Republic.
Gatekeepers News reports that Zagazola Makama, a platform that reports on security issues around the Lake Chad region, said the strikes targeted the mutineers who were leaving Cotonou in armoured vehicles.
According to the publication, the operation lasted more than 30 minutes and involved several Nigerian fighter jets working together inside Beninese airspace.
It quoted a source who said, “The operation was meticulously planned and executed. Our objectives were clear: neutralise fleeing hostile elements, prevent regrouping, and restore stability in coordination with regional partners.”
The report added that Benin Republic authorities approved the mission, and it was conducted in line with international procedures to reduce civilian harm while achieving maximum impact.
A military source also said the air force is committed to regional stability and the protection of neighbouring countries, noting that the mission relied on intelligence and was carried out to prevent any threat that could spread towards Nigeria’s borders.
Recall that during a broadcast on the state-run television station on Sunday morning, some uniformed officers identifying themselves as members of the Military Committee for Refoundation said they had assumed full command of national affairs.
In the televised address, the soldiers stated that President Patrice Talon and all political officeholders had been removed from office, adding that state institutions, including the constitutional structures of government, had been dissolved.
They introduced Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Tigri as the head of the newly formed military leadership, claiming that their intervention was necessary to refound the nation and restore “public order”.
Before the broadcast, heavy gunfire was heard near the president’s residence and other key areas in the capital. Witnesses said armed soldiers took over the national broadcaster before making the announcement, and armoured vehicles were seen moving around the presidential palace as everything was happening.
Subsequently, the presidency announced that President Talon was safe, adding that the “regular army” was regaining command of key installations. The president’s whereabouts however remain unknown.
