Bolivia has recently apprehended four additional military officials in relation to a failed coup attempt aimed at overthrowing the country's president. The arrests include the former commanding general of the air force, a sergeant accused of crashing a military vehicle into the government palace, another sergeant involved in transporting military leaders, and an infantry captain responsible for coordinating troop movements.
These latest detentions bring the total number of individuals arrested in connection with the coup attempt to 21. The incident, which occurred on Wednesday, shocked the global community as images emerged from the capital La Paz depicting military personnel taking over a square, armored vehicles forcefully entering the palace, and soldiers attempting to breach government offices.
According to a report released by the Bolivian government, military officials began planning the coup attempt as early as May, with former army chief Gen. Juan Jose Zúñiga and former navy commander Gen. Juan Arnez leading the discussions. Allegedly, Zúñiga's civilian personal adviser played a key role in devising the strategy for the coup.
All three individuals, including Zúñiga, have been taken into custody. The Bolivian Attorney General's Office has ordered Zúñiga to be held in pretrial detention for six months and charged him with terrorism and armed uprising.
Zúñiga's lawyer, Steven Orellana, confirmed the charges and stated that they are reviewing the prosecutor's indictment to prepare a defense. Zúñiga, on the other hand, claims that the coup was orchestrated by President Luis Arce to enhance his popularity, an assertion the president vehemently denies, attributing the actions to Zúñiga acting independently.
When questioned about the president's denial, Zúñiga's lawyer opted not to provide a response.
