Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embaló has reportedly been arrested by armed men. This happened after heavy gunfire broke out near the presidential palace in Bissau on Tuesday, according to government sources cited by the BBC.
Witnesses said shooting began around 13:00 GMT. It sent waves of panic through the capital as residents fled on foot and in cars to escape the violence. The identity and motives of the armed group remain unclear.
The incident comes amid heightened political tension following a controversial presidential election held three days earlier. The poll was marred by the disqualification of the main opposition candidate. Although official results are expected on Thursday, both Embaló and top rival Fernando Dias have declared victory.
Guinea-Bissau, a West African nation of fewer than two million people, is no stranger to instability. The country has recorded nine coups or attempted coups since 1980, making it one of the most politically volatile states in the region. President Embaló has previously survived two attempts to remove him from power, the latest in December 2023.
The situation remains fluid as international observers and regional bodies monitor events closely.
