DR Congo Repatriates Three Americans Jailed Over Failed Coup Attempt
The Democratic Republic of Congo has repatriated three U.S. citizens convicted over a failed coup in May 2023, after commuting their death sentences to life imprisonment. Among them is Marcel Malanga, son of the coup’s leader Christian Malanga, who was killed during the attack on the presidential palace.
Also returned were Tyler Thompson Jr. and Benjamin Reuben Zalman-Polun. The U.S. confirmed the transfer, emphasizing support for DRC’s legal process while advocating humane treatment.
The move comes as DRC and the U.S. negotiate a potential multibillion-dollar minerals-for-security deal amid ongoing conflict with Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. U.S. officials suggest Congo’s vast mineral wealth could be key to the agreement.
Families of the repatriated men expressed relief, though legal experts note reducing their sentences in the U.S. will be difficult due to treaty obligations.
