Claims of failed coup against Xi Jinping emerge, 9 security personnel reportedly killed

Unverified reports circulating online have claimed that a coup attempt by senior military figures against Chinese President Xi Jinping was foiled last month, resulting in the deaths of several security personnel. The claims, attributed to Chinese writer Sheng Shui, have not been confirmed by the Chinese government or state media.

According to the account, the alleged plot was planned for the evening of January 18 and involved Zhang Youxia, described as one of the most powerful generals in the People’s Liberation Army, and Liu Zhenli, said to be a senior strategic commander. 

The report allegedly claims that President Xi was scheduled to stay at the Jingshi Hotel in western Beijing, where the plotters allegedly intended to detain him and seize power.

The claims suggest that Xi became aware of the plan around two hours before it was to be carried out and left the hotel. Despite the alleged leak, supporters of the purported rebel faction reportedly arrived at the location, where they clashed with security forces loyal to the president. The account alleges that at least nine members of Xi’s personal security detail were killed during an exchange of gunfire, along with several of the alleged attackers.

Following the reported failure of the plot, Xi is said to have ordered the arrest of the two generals and the detention of their family members. 

However, Chinese state media has made no reference to any coup attempt and has instead reported recent actions within the military as part of routine “reforms” and disciplinary or anti-corruption measures.

Analysts note that Beijing has previously framed high-profile investigations and dismissals within the armed forces as part of President Xi’s long-running anti-corruption campaign, which he has used to consolidate control over the military.

The online claims also allege that this was the fourth attempt on Xi’s life, with a previous plot said to have been uncovered in 2013, and suggest that security around his family has been tightened. None of these assertions have been independently verified.

China’s government has not commented on the reports, and experts caution that information about internal power struggles within the Chinese leadership is tightly controlled, making independent verification extremely difficult.