What happened during the 2004 plot against Teodoro Obiang’s government?

The 2004 plot against the government of Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, sometimes referred to as the "Wonga coup," was a confirmed attempt to depose the president and install the exiled opposition leader Severo Moto in his place.12

The plan involved dozens of foreign mercenaries and millions of dollars in funding. However, the conspiracy was successfully foiled before it could be executed, thanks to the intervention of officials from multiple African countries.1

In the aftermath of the uncovered plot, a Malabo court sentenced a British mercenary named Simon Mann to 34 years in prison in July 2008 for his involvement in the affair. President Obiang later granted Mann a pardon in November 2009.321