Louis-Philippe Houndégnon, the former Director General of the Republican Police, remains in detention after the Court for the Repression of Economic Offenses and Terrorism (CRIET) rejected his provisional release on Monday, October 7, 2025.
During a tense hearing before the appeal judges, Houndégnon presented his account of the accusations against him, which include electronic harassment and incitement to rebellion.
While firmly denying the allegations, he admitted to “communication errors” during his public career. “I have never betrayed the institution,” he reportedly told the court, according to sources present at the hearing.
The former police chief maintained a calm but resolute tone, emphasizing his commitment to the Republic and a career he described as conducted in full compliance with law and duty.
He acknowledged that certain statements he had made may have been “misinterpreted,” but stressed that this did not justify the charges leveled against him.
Houndégnon’s defense team requested his provisional release, citing his ongoing cooperation with the authorities and concerns over his deteriorating health.
However, the court deemed that continued detention was necessary “for the proper conduct of the proceedings and the establishment of the truth,” and denied the request.
The decision underscores the judiciary’s determination to thoroughly investigate high-profile cases involving allegations of misconduct among senior public officials. Observers note that Houndégnon’s prolonged detention reflects the challenges facing the country in balancing due process with the public’s demand for accountability.
As the legal proceedings continue, Houndégnon remains in custody while awaiting further hearings, leaving the public and political commentators closely monitoring the case for its broader implications on governance and institutional integrity in Benin.
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