A group of military officers in Guinea-Bissau has announced that it has taken control of the country following reports that President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has been arrested.
The development comes hours after heavy gunfire erupted in central Bissau on Wednesday, prompting widespread panic and forcing hundreds of residents to flee to safety. Government sources confirmed that President Embaló had been detained, though details remain unclear.
Tensions have been mounting since the presidential election held three days ago, during which the leading opposition candidate was controversially disqualified. Although official results were expected on Thursday, both Embaló and rival contender Fernando Dias had already declared themselves winners, heightening political uncertainty.
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Eyewitnesses told reporters that shots rang out around 13:00 GMT, though the number of casualties—if any—has not yet been established. Reports from AFP indicated chaotic scenes as citizens fled on foot and in vehicles to escape the unrest.
Guinea-Bissau, a nation of under two million people, has long struggled with instability. Since 1980, it has witnessed nine coups or attempted coups. President Embaló himself previously survived two attempts to overthrow his government, including one in December 2023.
More details are expected as the situation develops…
(AFP)