Tetus Coup

2285 Tetus Coup was a military coup d'état that occurred in the Tetus Colonial Republic, culminating in the establishment of the Tetus People's Republic.

Background

It was the position of former President Clayton Orr's administration that the Silvanus Colonial Republic was backing Communist Interstellar-affiliated militias on Tetus.

During President Orr's three-term tenure, his administration had aimed to make Tetus the entertainment hub of the Juno Reach. However, allegations of unchecked corporate excesses and widespread corruption in the dominant casino sector may have bolstered local opposition forces. Accusations of extensive relationships between Orr's administration and American criminal organizations predate the coup.

The Coup

Communications Blackout

As the coup began, a significant number of military personnel were positioned in strategic areas around the capital and several of the government buildings. Smoke and explosions were reported from the Presidential Palace Communications from Tetus before official communications abruptly ceased. The resulting communications blackout lasted for days.

Rumors of Soviet Involvement

Early into the coup, unverified and unconfirmed reports claimed the presence of Union of Soviet Socialist Republics starships executing atmospheric maneuvers over the Republic's capital of Tetus City. The accuracy of these reports were questioned by the Champlain Group in their reporting on the ongoing coup.

New Government Formed, Tetus People's Republic

Following the restoration of communications, former Tetus Space Forces Captain Rachel Vasquez announced the formation of a new government and vehemently denied any Comintern involvement in the coup.

O.T.O. Response

After the address made by Vasquez, an Orion Treaty Organization spokesperson refused to rule out the possibility of a military intervention into the Silvanus System following the revolution within the Tetus Colonial Republic. The spokesperson confirmed discussions were being held with regional partners to determine an appropriate response.

Criminal Ties Revealed

Following the removal of his administration, evidence was made public by the revolutionary government regarding severe abuses of power - comparing his administration to that of a mafia state. Amongst which was video evidence of stockpiles of drugs, guns, and cash reserves in the Presidential Palace, documents showing an extensive money-laundering operation utilizing Tetus hotels and casinos, and documents demonstrating a history of embezzlement, bribery, and trafficking. Despite challenges from OTO members, these documents have been generally accepted as credible.

Communications Restored

In the following weeks, communications were restored by the revolutionary government - allowing news from local media reports to be shared with the rest of the Orion Arm.

Fate of Orr

Concurrent with the restoration of communications, it was found that former President Orr had relocated to the Sigma Draconis Orbital Districts.