Death Penalty for 3 U.S. Coup Plotters in DRC

A military court in the Democratic Republic of Congo has sentenced 37 people, including some foreigners, to death - for an attempted coup on 19th May. Three US citizens were among those handed capital punishment for trying to overthrow President Félix Tshisekedi. The coup was led by Christain Malanga, a former Congolese army officer and politician with US citizenship. Citizens of Belgium, the UK and Canada - of Congolese origin - were also sentenced to death. Malanga led armed men into the presidential palace in Kinshasa, the capital, after attacking parliamentary speaker Vital Kamerhe's home. Malanga and five others were killed by security forces. 51 men were detained. Their trial started on 7th June at the Ndolo military prison. 14 men were acquitted. DR Congo lifted a 21-year ban on the death penalty just two months before the botched power grab. Defence lawyers say they will appeal the death sentences.