US Embassy orders Americans to shelter in place as reported explosions, gunfire rock Cotonou; alert issued

The U.S. Embassy in Benin issued an emergency security alert late Sunday, ordering American citizens to shelter in place after gunfire, explosions and “unclear” security conditions erupted across Cotonou following an attempted military coup.

In its message, the embassy warned of roadblocks, widespread disruptions to phone and internet service, and armed clashes near government buildings, and said all routine consular services scheduled for Monday, December 8, would be suspended.

It urged U.S. citizens to avoid the presidential area, remain indoors, review personal security plans and keep a low profile.

The alert came as loyalist and mutinous forces battled for control of key sites in the West African nation’s commercial capital.

He vowed harsh consequences for the mutineers and expressed sympathy for victims and those believed to have been taken hostage during the violence.

Nigeria dispatched fighter jets and ground units at Benin’s request, according to Nigerian officials cited by Reuters, as part of a rapid regional effort to support the Talon government.

Nigerian aircraft were observed entering Benin’s airspace around the time major explosions reverberated through Cotonou, which security sources told local media were linked to airstrikes targeting rebel-held positions.

ECOWAS condemned the uprising and activated elements of its standby force, with personnel from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone and Ivory Coast deployed to assist in restoring order.

Witnesses described dragging furniture inside, closing shopfronts and hunkering down as clashes and explosions continued through the day.

The attempted coup comes four months ahead of Benin’s April presidential election, which will conclude Talon’s second term.

Tensions have also grown over jihadist incursions in northern Benin, reported BBC, where attacks in recent months have killed dozens of security personnel and strained the military.