The Court of Repression of Economic Infractions and Terrorism (CRIET) in Benin has scheduled November 23 to decide on the provisional release of Louis-Philippe Houndégnon, former Director General of the National Police, and his nephew, Camille Amoussou. The duo has been in detention since their arrest on November 13, 2024. Houndégnon has consistently denied the charges brought against him, including incitement to rebellion and harassment through electronic means.
During the hearing on November 9, Houndégnon maintained his innocence, rejecting the accusations leveled against him. His lawyers renewed their request for provisional release, hoping their clients could continue the legal process outside of prison. The prosecution, however, requested additional time to present their requisitions. The CRIET will now deliberate on the defense's request, with a decision expected on November 23.
Houndégnon's case has experienced several twists and turns since his arrest. The first trial began on December 16, 2024, but was halted when the court declared itself incompetent in May 2025, deeming the case to be of a criminal nature. This decision was contested, and the CRIET's competence was eventually confirmed. The defense had also sought the provisional release of the duo through the Supreme Court, but their request was denied.
The charges against Houndégnon stem from public statements he made, which the prosecution claims incited rebellion. He has argued that he was exercising his right to express himself on matters of national interest, particularly regarding his forced retirement from the police force. Houndégnon also questioned the regularity of the procedure, citing the absence of an investigation report in his file.
The prosecution's case against Camille Amoussou, Houndégnon's nephew, appears to be weaker. The substitute public prosecutor indicated that they had "nothing against" Amoussou, but this did not lead to his immediate release. The CRIET's decision on November 23 will be crucial in determining the course of the case.
The case has garnered significant attention in Benin, with many following the developments closely. Houndégnon's detention has been a subject of discussion, with some questioning the legitimacy of the charges brought against him. The CRIET's ruling on November 23 is expected to shed more light on the case and its possible outcomes.
The decision on Houndégnon's provisional release will be a significant step in the case, but it does not necessarily preclude the possibility of a lengthy trial. The CRIET's competence in handling economic and terrorist cases has been confirmed, and the court is expected to deliver a verdict in due course.
Key points
- The CRIET will decide on Louis-Philippe Houndégnon's provisional release on November 23.
- Houndégnon has denied charges of incitement to rebellion and harassment.
- The case has experienced several delays and changes in jurisdiction.
