In brief
Kemi Seba, a prominent activist originally from Benin and known for opposing French influence in Africa, has been arrested in South Africa while trying to escape to Europe. He is facing charges in Benin related to a failed coup attempt and has previous convictions in France for inciting racial hatred.
South African police have arrested Kemi Seba, a 45-year-old French-born Beninese activist, during an operation in Pretoria. Seba, also known as Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, was reportedly trying to flee to Europe through Zimbabwe, along with his 18-year-old son. He is wanted in Benin on charges of 'inciting rebellion' due to his support of a coup attempt last year. His arrest, which took place on Monday, followed a sting operation that also nabbed an alleged facilitator who was paid to assist in their attempted illegal crossing. Police stated that Seba is considered a fugitive in both France and Benin for various crimes against the state. Following the failed coup in Benin in December 2024, in which Seba declared a 'day of liberation,' an international warrant for his arrest was issued. He has previously been accused of spreading Russian propaganda and has been convicted multiple times in France for inciting racial hatred.
