Madagascar President Escapes Assassination Attempt

Gunmen have attempted to assassinate the president of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina.

This was made known by the prosecutor general’s office in Madagascar.

According to reports, several “foreign and Malagasy” suspects were arrested over the assassination attempt.

Two French people are among several arrested in the Indian Ocean island nation on Tuesday “as part of an investigation for undermining state security”.

In a statement on Wednesday night, prosecutor Berthine Razafiarivony said “Several foreign and Madagascar nationals were arrested on Tuesday, July 20, as part of an investigation into an attack on state security.

“At this stage of the investigation, which is ongoing, the prosecutor-general’s office assures we will shed light in on this case.”

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According to Radio France Internationale, the foreigners detained were Paul Rafanoharana, a Franco-Malagasy, and Philippe Francois, a Frenchman.

According to a source, Rafanoharana was arrested at his house Tuesday evening, while Francois was stopped at Ivato Airport as he was preparing to leave for France.

During the country’s Independence Day celebrations on June 26, the gendarmerie announced that they had foiled an assassination attempt on their boss who is also the president’s right-hand man, General Richard Ravalomanana.