Two foreigners have been arrested in Madagascar on suspicion of plotting a coup d'état to overthrow interim President Michaël Randrianirina. The new head of the island nation's intelligence services, Rufin Tolojara Lebiria, announced this at a press conference, as reported by RFI.
The suspects had been living in Madagascar for over five years. During a search of one suspect's home, weapons and a large sum of money were discovered.
"We found 2 billion ariary in cash ($446,000), several banknotes in foreign currency, as well as three hunting rifles and three automatic pistols. Both suspects are foreigners; they are neither Europeans nor Indo-Pakistanis," stated Lebiria, adding that the detainees could not explain the origin of the money.
The intelligence chief noted that the detainees intended to assassinate Randrianirina. According to him, this information was obtained from reliable sources.
"These searches are not a form of persecution; the investigation was launched based on reliable and verified information," said Lebiria.
He added that the masterminds behind the coup attempt have not been identified, and three other suspects are still at large.
Michaël Randrianirina was sworn in as Madagascar's interim president on October 17. He announced that he was taking power after the country's High Constitutional Court proposed he do so. Former President Andry Rajoelina, who left the country, condemned the court's proposal and believes the judges were "threatened."
