European Aid Worker in Central African Republic Charged with Terrorism

Martin Joseph Figueira, a Belgian-Portuguese consultant for FHI360, has been charged with terrorism and undermining state security in the Central African Republic. Authorities allege he communicated with armed groups to plot a coup. If convicted, he faces life with forced labour. FHI360 and the UN are monitoring the situation.

Authorities in the Central African Republic have charged Martin Joseph Figueira, a European aid worker, with terrorism and undermining state security. The public prosecutor's office announced this development on Friday. Figueira, a Belgian-Portuguese consultant for the American NGO FHI360, is accused of plotting a coup in cooperation with armed groups.

The charges, which could lead to a life sentence of forced labour if he is found guilty, include allegations of several contracts with leaders of armed factions, supplying strategic information, and disseminating propaganda for the creation of an international terrorist branch akin to the Islamic State.

Figueira, who holds Belgian and Portuguese passports, was arrested in Zemio, a conflict-ridden town in southeastern CAR. FHI360 confirmed the arrest and stated they are working for his immediate release. The UN and Figueira's embassy in Bangui are closely monitoring the developments.

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