Several Nigerien agents arrested in Cotonou amid diplomatic tensions
By: Zagazola Makama
Beninese security sources say several intelligence agents from Niger have been arrested in Cotonou for allegedly monitoring the movements of the country’s president.
The sources told Zagazola Makama that the arrested operatives are under investigation, with further details yet to be disclosed.
The arrests follow escalating diplomatic tensions between Benin and Niger. Earlier this month, two Nigerien intelligence officers stationed at Niger’s embassy in Cotonou were expelled, prompting a reciprocal move by Nigerien authorities that led to the dismissal of the first advisor of the Benin Embassy in Niamey. This action resulted in the closure of the Beninese diplomatic mission in the Nigerien capital on January 5.
Authorities are yet to comment further on the ongoing investigations.
