Madagascar detains French ex-serviceman and expels French diplomat over alleged destabilization plot

Madagascar detained French former serviceman Guy Baret and expelled a French embassy official over allegations of plotting to destabilize the country, with planned actions set for April 18. Baret and Malagasy army officer Colonel Patrick Rakotomamonjy were charged with criminal conspiracy, sabotaging infrastructure including power lines and thermal plants, spreading false information, and harboring wanted individuals. France denied the accusations and summoned Madagascar's charge d'affaires to protest the expulsion.