Military officials in Bangladesh say they have uncovered a plot by religious extremists to overthrow the government.

Brigadier General Muhammad Masud Razzaq shared details of the attempted coup with reporters Thursday, calling it a “heinous conspiracy” to topple Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Razzaq said the coup had been planned abroad and that two retired military officers had been arrested. The Associated Press reported up to 16 current and former military officers had been involved.

Bangladesh has a history of bitter political rivalries, coups and counter-coups since gaining its independence.