South African police have arrested Kemi Seba, a 'wanted fugitive' and prominent French-born Beninese activist, as he allegedly tried to flee to Europe via Zimbabwe.
Seba, whose real name is Stellio Gilles Robert Capo Chichi, faces charges in Benin for 'inciting rebellion' linked to a failed coup attempt last year.
He was taken into custody on Monday, along with his 18-year-old son, in a sting operation at a Pretoria shopping center. A third individual, accused of facilitating their illicit travel, was also arrested.
The 45-year-old activist has gained notoriety for opposing French influence in Africa and for backing military leaders in West Africa, alongside accusations of disseminating Russian propaganda.
South African police stated that preliminary investigations suggest Seba is wanted in France and Benin for state crimes. Reports indicate that around 250,000 South African rand (approximately $15,000) was paid to facilitate his escape plans.
After a court appearance on Wednesday, Seba and his son remain in custody; their next court date is scheduled for April 20, and discussions for extradition are reportedly underway.
Having amassed 1.5 million followers online, Seba leads the NGO Pan-Africanist Emergency, focusing on African sovereignty issues. He was stripped of his French citizenship in 2024 and publicly burned his passport in protest.
The attempted coup in December 2024, supported by Seba in social media declarations, was thwarted with assistance from Nigeria and France.
