A member of the Beninese Armed Forces is currently before the Court for the Suppression of Economic Offenses and Terrorism (CRIET) over allegations of desertion and breach of trust linked to unpaid debts.
The case, reported on August 22, 2025, by Banouto, underscores growing concerns over financial misconduct within the military.
The prosecution claims the soldier secured a loan of 4.25 million CFA francs from a microfinance institution but failed to repay it on time.
When summoned by the institution, the notification was delivered to his department and handed to his superior in his absence.
Upon his return, the soldier received the summons but allegedly did not resume his post, only to be located more than a month later following information provided by a colleague who was also a victim of his actions.
The colleague, who has filed a civil suit, asserts that the accused owes him over 10 million CFA francs. While abroad on assignment, he had entrusted the soldier with the management of his farm and his entire mission allowance to develop a livestock project.
Upon returning, he discovered that the funds had not been used for their intended purpose, and the soldier had disappeared, leaving no explanation.
In court, the soldier denied desertion, claiming he had obtained authorization from his superior to address the summons from the financial institution. The court has decided to hear the superior to verify these claims. Regarding his colleague’s allegations, the defendant admitted to owing 1.1 million CFA francs, significantly less than the 10 million cited.
The hearing continues as CRIET works to determine the extent of the soldier’s responsibility in both the alleged desertion and breach of trust. Legal observers note that the case highlights the challenges faced by military institutions in maintaining financial accountability and discipline among personnel.
The outcome of this trial may set an important precedent for how financial misconduct and desertion cases are handled within Benin’s armed forces, emphasizing both personal accountability and institutional oversight.
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