Aaron Bamboche, a civilian accused of breaching security at State House on Saturday, appeared before the Supreme Court yesterday morning and has been remanded in custody for 14 days.
The incident occurred on Saturday April 11 at 4.45pm, when Bamboche drove a black Honda Vezel into the main gate at State House. At the time, President Patrick Herminie was not present on the premises. Security personnel stationed at State House, operating under the auspices of the Seychelles Defence Forces (SDF), responded immediately and managed to bring the situation under control before contacting the Seychelles police force. Bamboche was arrested shortly after.
The development was confirmed during a press conference held yesterday afternoon at State House by Commissioner of Police Godfra Hermitte and Brigadier General of the Seychelles Defence Forces Jean Attala, who addressed the circumstances surrounding the incident and the ongoing investigation.
Commissioner Hermitte said the matter is being treated with seriousness and a case is now open against him. He confirmed that the individual is expected to face multiple charges, including offences related to cybercrime, criminal trespass, reckless driving and terrorism‑related charges. According to ComPol Hermitte, investigators are also examining claims made by Bamboche on social media, including allegations involving the removal of bodies from cemeteries.
He noted that Bamboche has the right to provide information or remain silent, but police will continue gathering evidence to establish the facts. A mental health evaluation is also being considered.
Mr Hermitte revealed that multiple cases involving the individual are currently before the courts, and he remains subject to several bail conditions. One ongoing case involves an incident at the Barbarons military base, where Bamboche allegedly approached the gate, obtained a firearm from a soldier, took photographs, and shared them on social media. An application is being prepared to revoke the bail conditions.
The commissioner of police denied claims that the suspect was assaulted by police officers following Saturday’s incident. “I have no report that Mr Bamboche has been beaten by any police officer,” he said.
Brigadier General Attala clarified that Bamboche had no formal affiliation with the Seychelles Defence Forces. “He was never a military officer who took the oath and worked in SDF at any moment,” said Brigadier General Attala. “He once applied to join our special cadet in the force in 2024. He joined as recruit on January 19, 2024 for service support cadet and quit on January 24, 2024 on his own request.” Authorities also confirmed that he has never been employed by the Seychelles police force.
Following the breach, Mr Attala said security measures at State House will be strengthened. Although the damaged gate was repaired on the same day, two digital mechanisms used for its operation remain out of service.
Underscoring the seriousness of the incident, Brigadier General Attala emphasised that State House is a critical national institution and that the security of the President, staff members, and visiting officials remains paramount. He noted that in situations involving civilians, military personnel are required to assess circumstances carefully in line with their training before any use of force, with decisions guided by strict operational protocols.
In a press release dated Saturday April 11, President Patrick Herminie strongly condemned the act, stating that there was no threat to himself or to staff and that normal operations at State House continue without disruption. He described the incident as a serious affront to national institutions and affirmed that such actions will not be tolerated, and that the necessary legal action will be taken.
Looking ahead, authorities confirmed that an ongoing review will assess existing security systems and response procedures, with the aim of strengthening protective measures at State House. This will include enhancements to operational protocols and continued coordination with the police to ensure an effective response to similar incidents.
