Regional power Nigeria assisted in thwarting the mutiny, saying its fighter jets had helped "dislodge the coup plotters from the National TV and a military camp" following a request from Benin's government.

Authorities in the west African country confirm arrests were made and hostages released, but apparent coup leader remained at large.

The government said it had thwarted the mutiny hours after a group of soldiers declared a takeover on national television. Later in the afternoon, huge explosions were heard in Cotonou, Benin's largest city and seat of government. They were thought to have been the result of an air strike.

Benin’s military is searching for fugitive soldiers after a deadly foiled coup, as regional powers including Nigeria and ECOWAS deploy forces to help stabilise the country.

In Benin, a failed coup attempt led by Lt. Col. Pascal Tigri left the leader unaccounted for, while the status of hostages, including senior military officials, remains uncertain., World News, Times N

Within hours, loyalist forces regained control of key installations, including the state broadcaster, and arrested at least 14 individuals believed to be involved in the plot.

The government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has condemned the attempted seizure of power in the Republic of Benin after a