France debunks presence of military in Benin

France’s envoy to Benin Marc Vizy has denied the presence of a military in Benin to help curtail terrorism activities in the north.
“No, there is no military base in the north of Benin. I can confirm that. If you find someone who tells you that, I am ready so that he takes me on a visit in a car. There is no military base,” Vizy told local media “Bip radio” during an interview on July 14.
The diplomat also added that France and the West African country have military cooperation in the fight against terrorism. The European country, in line with the cooperation, sends instructors, the ambassador said.
“These are groups of 3 to 12 people staying up to 15 days, providing training with their Benin counterparts in various fields. These trainings could be trainings that are termed Ecoles Nationales à Vocation Regionale”, Vizy said.
Benin since November 2021 has been grappling with dozens of terror attacks. The army has lost 22 soldiers and 42 reported wounded according to Chief of Staff Abou Issa. At least 52 alleged terrorists have been killed while 72 have been arrested.