(DailyChive.com) – Three American men implicated in an alleged coup plot in Congo have been extradited to the U.S. to face federal charges.
At a Glance
- Three Americans repatriated from Congo have been charged with participating in a coup attempt to overthrow the Congolese government.
- The charges stem from allegations that led to the defendants being detained in Congo and initially sentenced to death, later commuted to life imprisonment.
- Their repatriation coincided with Congolese efforts to secure a minerals deal with the U.S. for security support.
- The FBI investigation accuses the men of conspiring to provide weapons and support to a rebel army.
- The plot aimed to establish a new government, “New Zaire,” with Christian Malanga as president.
Extradition and Charges
In a significant development, three Americans have been extradited from Congo to the United States to face charges of planning a coup to overthrow the Congolese government. Marcel Malanga, Tyler Thompson Jr., and Benjamin Zalman-Polun, along with Joseph Peter Moesser, an alleged explosives expert, are facing serious accusations. The charges include conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, intending to seize control by bombing government facilities, and attempting to establish a new administration called “New Zaire.”
The conspirators were initially sentenced to death in Congo, a verdict that was later commuted to life imprisonment. Their return to the U.S. aligns with recent Congolese negotiations for a minerals deal with America, seeking security support. Authorities assert that Marcel Malanga, notable for his familial connections to opposition leaders, played a crucial role in this plot.
Complex Plot and Roles
The alleged plot detailed plans to recruit and arm local rebel forces, providing them with necessary weaponry and training. Tyler Thompson, identified as a drone specialist, was scheduled to enhance drones with a flamethrower attachment for use against government forces. Meanwhile, Zalman-Polun reportedly committed to recruiting soldiers, aspiring to serve in the new administration if the coup succeeded.
“Chief of Staff of the Zaire army” – Marcel Malanga.
Joseph Peter Moesser, with a past record involving explosives, stands accused of helping equip the group with incendiary devices and preparing drones for assault missions. Witnesses confirmed witnessing drone and firearms tests in Utah prior to the team’s departure to Congo. According to FBI reports, the operation specifically targeted Congolese leadership, resulting in the deaths of six individuals, including police officers.
Legal and Security Implications
This troubling incident underscores ongoing concerns about external forces intervening in fragile geopolitical climates. The FBI, with collaborative efforts from offices in New York and Nairobi, spearheaded the investigation, prioritizing the accountability of American citizens involved in international conflict.
“The four defendants pose an extreme danger to the community and present an unmanageable risk of flight” – the Justice Department.
Authorities continue to underscore the seriousness of these charges, emphasizing the dangers posed by individuals skilled in military tactics and explosive devices. Legal proceedings are expected to unfold in Brooklyn and Salt Lake City, where prosecutors aim to secure the necessary measures to prevent further public risk and preserve justice.
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