South African police have arrested Kemi Seba, a French-born Beninese activist considered a 'wanted fugitive' for inciting rebellion in Benin. His real name, Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, is associated with his support for a foiled coup attempt in December 2024.
Seba was apprehended in Pretoria while allegedly attempting to flee to Europe through Zimbabwe, alongside his 18-year-old son. The police conducted a sting operation at a shopping center, which also led to the arrest of a facilitator who reportedly received payment to help them cross the border illegally.
At 45, Seba is a well-known figure advocating for African sovereignty and often opposes French intervention in Africa. He has a significant online following of 1.5 million and leads the NGO Pan-Africanist Emergency. Seba has a history of legal issues in France, including convictions for inciting racial hatred and accusations of anti-Semitism. In 2024, he lost his French citizenship after publicly denouncing it.
His involvement in the failed coup in Benin drew international attention, with Beninese authorities issuing a warrant for his arrest for his role in inciting unrest. His arrest in South Africa prompts proceedings for extradition, and both Seba and his son remain in custody as legal actions unfold. They are scheduled to appear in court again on April 20, with international attention focused on the implications of their case for regional politics.
Seba was apprehended in Pretoria while allegedly attempting to flee to Europe through Zimbabwe, alongside his 18-year-old son. The police conducted a sting operation at a shopping center, which also led to the arrest of a facilitator who reportedly received payment to help them cross the border illegally.
At 45, Seba is a well-known figure advocating for African sovereignty and often opposes French intervention in Africa. He has a significant online following of 1.5 million and leads the NGO Pan-Africanist Emergency. Seba has a history of legal issues in France, including convictions for inciting racial hatred and accusations of anti-Semitism. In 2024, he lost his French citizenship after publicly denouncing it.
His involvement in the failed coup in Benin drew international attention, with Beninese authorities issuing a warrant for his arrest for his role in inciting unrest. His arrest in South Africa prompts proceedings for extradition, and both Seba and his son remain in custody as legal actions unfold. They are scheduled to appear in court again on April 20, with international attention focused on the implications of their case for regional politics.
