Niger: Court orders the release of two people close to deposed president Mohamed Bazoum
The justice system of Niger has made a decision to release Abdourahamane Ben Hamaye, a journalist who worked with the presidency during Mohamed Bazoum’s term, and Mohamed Mbarek, the cousin of the former first lady.
They were arrested in October last year in connection with an alleged attempt to exfiltrate Mohamed Bazoum.
This stems from an incident in October 2023, where the Niamey Court of Appeal’s Attorney General, Salissou Chaïbou, confirmed an attempted escape by former President Mohamed Bazoum, who was ousted in a coup in July 2023.
The attempt involved twenty-three individuals, including civilians and military personnel, with Mohamed Ben Hamaye, a former advisor to Bazoum, being labeled as the alleged mastermind.
Both Ben Hamaye and Mbarek were held in custody for about six months after their arrest, accused of plotting against the state.
However, a recent court ruling favoured Ben Hamaye and Mbarek, who were being detained without proper legal grounds at the Gendarmerie Research Brigade in Niamey.
The court ordered their release, imposing a penalty of 1,000,000 F per day of delay and also requiring the State of Niger to cover the costs. An appeal period of 15 days has been granted through a bailiff’s service.
Olivier TOE
