Bolivian government says it detained 4 more people in connection with a failed coup attempt

La Paz, Bolivia– Bolivian government officials said Friday they arrested four more people in connection with Wednesday’s failed coup attempt against President Luis Arce, bringing the total detainees to 21.

Government Minister Eduardo del Castillo said that those detained included soldiers, including the driver of an armored vehicle that rammed the government palace.

“He had the audacity to use an armored vehicle against the heritage and put the president’s life at risk,” del Castillo said.

Previous arrests included a man who authorities said was conducting intelligence in the plaza outside the palace wearing a bulletproof vest, and another military sergeant who communicated via the FaceTime app and other social media.

The government claims that the coup attempt was led by Juan José Zúñigaa high-ranking general, who alleged, without providing evidence, that the president had ordered him to carry out the mutiny as a ploy to boost his flagging popularity.

That fueled speculation about what really happened among Bolivians, already disillusioned with their government as ongoing political disputes between Arce and his former political ally Evo Morales have exacerbated the economic crisis in the country.

Arce declared Thursday night that accusations that he had carried out a “self-coup” to gain political support were “lies.” He swore Zuniga and those involved would face justice.