Simon Mann: From Mercenary to Failed Coup Leader

Former British Army officer and mercenary Simon Mann has passed away at the age of 72 due to a heart attack while exercising, friends have confirmed. Mann, who made millions of pounds from protecting businesses in conflict zones, was known for his role in the failed attempt to overthrow the ruler of Equatorial Guinea in 2004.

Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!

The Coup Attempt

In 2004, Mann was part of a plot to overthrow President Teodoro Obiang Nguema of Equatorial Guinea. The aim of the coup was to install exiled opposition leader Severo Moto as the new leader of the country. The plan was uncovered when a plane carrying Mann and his co-conspirators was impounded in Zimbabwe.

• Mann and over 60 others were arrested on charges of being mercenaries.
• They claimed they were providing security for a mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

After his arrest, Mann was sentenced to 34 years in prison on arms charges. He later stated that he was the “manager, not the architect” of the coup attempt. In 2009, he was pardoned and released, with only 48 hours to leave the country.

Background and Military Career

Mann attended Eton and then went on to study at Sandhurst Royal Military Academy before joining the Scots Guards. He eventually became a member of the SAS, the army’s special forces unit, and rose through the ranks to become a commander.

The Foiled Coup and Aftermath

In 2011, Mann claimed that the attempted coup in Equatorial Guinea was foiled by the CIA. After serving three years of his sentence in Zimbabwe, he was transferred to Black Beach Prison in Equatorial Guinea. Mann expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging that while the money was good, the moral implications had to be considered.

Speaking about his move to Black Beach Prison, Mann recounted how friends, family, and enemies had warned him that he would not survive the experience. Despite the challenges he faced, Mann was eventually pardoned and released.

Reflection and Legacy

In his later years, Mann reflected on his involvement in the coup attempt and the consequences it had on his life. He emphasized the importance of considering the ethical implications of one’s actions, even in high-stakes situations.

Simon Mann’s life serves as a cautionary tale of the dangers of getting involved in illicit activities, even for financial gain. His journey from military service to mercenary work to a failed coup leader is a complex and intriguing story that highlights the complexities of international conflict and power dynamics.