Federal prosecutors say Faal was part of a group of 10 to 12 men, most from the United States and Europe, who traveled to their native Gambia to carry out the coup attempt. Barrow served in the Tennessee Army National Guard until January 2014, while others involved in the operation had also served in the U.S. or Gambian armies.
The group’s plan for the coup was to restore democracy to Gambia and improve the lives of its people, according to the complaint.
They hoped they would be able to take over the country without having to kill any Gambians, the complaint said. They also expected to be joined by up to 160 members of the local Gambian military who supposedly agreed to participate in the coup.
They say on Dec. 30, Faal and the other fighters gathered in the woods near the presidential palace, aiming to storm the building. The soldiers guarding the complex fired on them, killing several.
Editor’s note: This story was updated to eliminate the characterization of Faal as a leader of the group.
Article Appeared @http://www.mprnews.org/story/2015/01/30/gambia-coup