French Ex-Serviceman Detained in Madagascar Over Alleged Destabilization Plot

Madagascar Expels French Embassy Personnel Over Alleged Plot to Destabilize Island

The government of Madagascar has taken action against several individuals linked to an alleged plot to destabilize the island nation. A former French national serviceman, Guy Baret, has been detained at Tsiafahy maximum-security prison on charges related to spreading false information and plotting to sabotage infrastructure.

Additionally, a Malagasy army officer, Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy, and other individuals have been implicated in the investigation. They are accused of harbouring wanted individuals, criminal conspiracy, and other crimes.

According to Deputy Prosecutor Nomenarinera Mihamintsoa Ramanantsoa, prosecutors have charged the suspects with a range of offenses. The group allegedly planned actions initially set for April 18.

Madagascar is a former French colony that maintains close ties with France. The country has experienced instability in recent years, including a wave of youth-led protests that led to the overthrow of President Andry Rajoelina.

France has responded to the expulsion of its embassy personnel by summoning the charge d’affaires of the Madagascan embassy in Paris. French Foreign Ministry spokesman Pascal Confavreux stated that France categorically rejected any accusation of destabilizing the government, describing such accusations as “unfounded and incomprehensible.”

The Madagascar Foreign Ministry has also summoned French Ambassador Arnaud Guillois and informed him of the decision regarding the expulsion of an embassy agent. The details of the acts in question have not been disclosed.

In related news, a French serviceman was detained by authorities over an alleged plot to destabilize the island.

Source: Al Jazeera