Benin Army Chief Kidnapped During Chaotic Coup Attempt
A violent and chaotic coup attempt in Benin left the country's army chief of staff, Major General Abou Issa, unconscious and kidnapped. The incident began with a night raid on Issa's home in Cotonou by masked gunmen, followed by a confusing rescue operation where soldiers from an emergency unit allegedly clubbed him into unconsciousness with rifle butts instead of saving him. The event was marked by bizarre details, including shots fired at his wife, a stolen case of Sprite, and a mortally wounded woman found near his gate. This power scramble in West Africa resulted in 24 hours of gunbattles, betrayal, and superstition, highlighting the instability within the region's military hierarchy.
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Benin Army Chief Kidnapped During Chaotic Coup Attempt
A violent and chaotic coup attempt in Benin left the country's army chief of staff, Major General Abou Issa, unconscious and kidnapped. The incident began with a night raid on Issa's home in Cotonou by masked gunmen, followed by a confusing rescue operation where soldiers from an emergency unit allegedly clubbed him into unconsciousness with rifle butts instead of saving him. The event was marked by bizarre details, including shots fired at his wife, a stolen case of Sprite, and a mortally wounded woman found near his gate. This power scramble in West Africa resulted in 24 hours of gunbattles, betrayal, and superstition, highlighting the instability within the region's military hierarchy.
WSJ.com: World News