Failed Benin Mutiny: How Nigerian air strikes neutralized fleeing coup plotters

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reportedly carried out coordinated airstrikes against elements linked to the failed coup attempt in the Benin Republic, multiple security sources told Akelicious on Sunday.

According to insiders familiar with the highly classified operation, the strikes targeted coup loyalists who were fleeing Cotonou in armoured vehicles after loyalist Beninese forces moved swiftly to crush the uprising.

NAF fighter jets were said to have executed a series of precision strikes within a 30-minute window inside Benin’s airspace, hitting convoy positions, disabling escape routes and neutralising several members of the fleeing faction.

“This was a carefully planned operation.”

“The mission was straightforward, neutralise hostile elements, prevent any regrouping, and stabilise the environment in line with our regional security commitments,” one senior security source said.

The sources stressed that the operation was conducted with full approval from Beninese authorities and in line with international protocols, adding that care was taken to avoid civilian casualties while ensuring maximum impact on the armed mutineers.

Residents in parts of Cotonou reported hearing loud explosions consistent with air-to-ground attacks on Sunday morning.

Security insiders confirmed that the bombardment destroyed multiple armoured vehicles and disrupted escape corridors used by the coup elements.

The air support followed the failed mutiny allegedly orchestrated by Lt. Pascal Tigri, who briefly attempted to dissolve state institutions and seize power.

Although loyalist forces quickly regained control, several members of the renegade faction reportedly attempted to flee southwards, prompting Abuja’s rapid intervention.

A senior military officer who spoke anonymously said Nigeria acted to protect regional stability and prevent any spillover threats.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains committed to safeguarding the sub-region.

Our operations are intelligence-driven, precise, and focused on ensuring that no threat in a neighbouring state undermines our own national security,” the official said.

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