Hunt under way for Benin coup plotters as two hostages reportedly freed

Thieves have stolen eight artworks by renowned artist Henri Matisse from a library in Brazil during normal opening hours, using a canvas bag to carry the pieces away. The incident highlights the vulnerability of cultural institutions to theft, raising concerns about security measures in place to protect valuable art collections.

A coup attempt in Benin was thwarted by the armed forces after a group of soldiers claimed on national television to have seized power from President Patrice Talon. The government announced that the situation is now under control, with fourteen individuals arrested in connection with the incident.

Nigerian authorities have successfully secured the release of 100 schoolchildren who were abducted by gunmen from a Catholic school last month. However, details surrounding the release remain unclear, and approximately 165 individuals are still unaccounted for, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.

The day-to-day lives of citizens in Benin have not seen significant improvements, with a notably high poverty level among the youth. This situation reflects ongoing challenges in addressing economic and social issues within the country.

At least five people have been killed in violent clashes at the Thai-Cambodia border, marking the most serious confrontation between the two sides since July. Thousands have fled the area as tensions escalate, raising concerns over safety and stability in the region.

Benin's President Patrice Talon announced that the situation in the country is 'completely under control' following a thwarted coup attempt by a group of soldiers who claimed to have seized power. The government, with assistance from loyalist soldiers and Nigerian forces, successfully foiled the coup and arrested fourteen individuals involved in the plot.

A group of soldiers in Benin announced on state television that they had dissolved the government of President Patrice Talon, indicating an attempted coup. However, Interior Minister Alassane Seidou later confirmed that the coup attempt had been foiled, assuring the public that the situation was under control. The government reported that fourteen individuals were arrested in connection with this incident.

A significant water leak in the Egyptian department of the Louvre Museum has damaged hundreds of books, raising concerns about the preservation of invaluable cultural heritage. This incident follows a recent high-profile jewel heist that has put the museum's security measures under scrutiny.