Four Americans have pleaded not guilty in a Utah federal court to charges related to an attempted coup in Congo, which included conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction and other serious crimes. Among them is Marcel Malanga, whose father, Christian Malanga, led the failed attack on the Congolese presidential palace in May 2024, resulting in several deaths, including Christian Malanga's. The defendants, who had their death sentences in Congo commuted before returning to the U.S., faced a joint court appearance where they were ordered to remain in custody. Additionally, Joseph Peter Moesser, charged separately, is accused of providing explosives training and weapons from his Utah home. If convicted, the four face significant prison sentences, highlighting the gravity of the charges against them.

Four Americans, including Marcel Malanga, pleaded not guilty to serious charges in a Utah federal court related to a failed coup attempt in Congo. The charges include conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction, conspiracy to bomb government facilities, and conspiracy to kill or kidnap persons abroad.

Marcel Malanga is the son of Christian Malanga, an opposition figure who led the coup attempt targeting the presidential palace in Kinshasa. The May 2024 attack resulted in the deaths of at least six people, including Christian Malanga himself.

The three Americans returned from Congo after their death sentences were commuted, having been among 37 people sentenced by a military court for their roles in the attempted coup.

Joseph Peter Moesser, a 67-year-old alleged explosives expert, is charged with providing training and weapons from his Utah home to aid the coup. He appeared separately in court and also pleaded not guilty.

All four defendants are currently in custody following their court appearances, reflecting the serious nature of the accusations. Their legal representatives have not yet provided public comments on the defense strategy.

The failed coup aimed to overthrow Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, underscoring the international implications of the charges and the potential for lengthy prison sentences if the defendants are convicted.

The case highlights the international reach of U.S. law enforcement in prosecuting crimes with foreign elements, particularly those involving violent attempts to overthrow governments.