Americans Sent Back After DR Congo Coup Attempt

By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu

Three U.S. citizens—Marcel Malanga Malu, Tylor Thomson, and Zalman Polun Benjamin have been returned to the United States to serve life sentences for their involvement in a failed coup in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

While initially sentenced to death, their sentences were later reduced to life imprisonment.

The repatriation was carried out “in strict compliance with legal procedures,” according to Tina Salama, spokesperson for the Congolese presidency.

The U.S. Department of State worked alongside the U.S. embassy in Kinshasa to ensure the process went smoothly.

“We had custody of the three individuals,” said Tammy Bruce, a spokesperson for the U.S. Department of State.

She also noted that the U.S. government condemned the violence, adding, “We support the Congolese government’s efforts to hold those responsible accountable, while ensuring humane treatment and a fair legal process.”

The three Americans were part of a group of 37 individuals convicted for their roles in the May 2023 attack on the presidential palace and the residence of an ally of President Félix Tshisekedi.

They were charged with terrorism, criminal conspiracy, and other offenses, though they denied the charges.

Experts believe the individuals are unlikely to have their sentences reduced or be released early. This development comes as U.S. interest grows in the DR Congo’s mineral resources, particularly cobalt and coltan, which are essential for manufacturing electronics and electric vehicle batteries.