ALBAWABA - Hours after attempting to take over the presidential palace in the capital La Paz, Bolivian authorities have arrested ex-army chief and failed coup attempt leader Juan José Zúñiga after he said he wants to "restore democracy in the country".
Later on Wednesday, armored vehicles crashed through the doors of the Bolivian governmental palace, where troops were seen taking control of the facility, vowing to "restore democracy", blocking several routes in La Paz, and occupying the square in front of the government building.
Just when the troops were launching their coup, Zúñiga stated that while he still held respect for President Luis Arce for now, he wanted there to be a change of government.
However, the attempt did not last long, and shortly after the troops started pulling back along with a line of military vehicles, ending the rebellion after just three hours.
Government Minister Eduardo del Castillo stated that in addition to the arrest of Zúñiga, Juan Arnez Salvador, former vice admiral in the navy was also arrested for having apparent ties to the failed coup.
Later on, several leaders, including Defense Minister Edmundo Novillo, stated that "everything is under control" adding that the country lived a failed coup attempt.
Earlier, Zúñiga stated: "We are listening to the cry of the people because for many years an elite has taken control of the country. Politicians are destroying the country: look at what situation we are in, what crisis they have left us in".
The quickly escalating situation began in the early afternoon when La Paz's streets began to fill with military troops. President Arce posted on X that the military' deployment was irregular, and he and other political figures warned of a coup attempt.
