There is no direct threat to the security of the Russian embassy and to the Russians in Guinea-Bissau, where, as reported by the Economic Community of West African States, a coup attempt was made, the Russian embassy in the republic told TASS on Tuesday.
"There is no direct threat to the security of the embassy and Russian citizens," the diplomatic mission informed.
Shots can still be heard in the vicinity of the government house in Guinea-Bissau. "We inform you that about two o'clock this afternoon a group of unknown individuals in plain clothes, armed with machine guns and grenade launchers, attacked the government house, where at that time an extraordinary meeting of the RGB Council of Ministers was being held with the participation of the first persons of the state. A fierce firefight broke out, with dead and wounded," reported the embassy. - "Armed troops loyal to the government were pulled up to the building. Shots can still be heard in the surroundings of the government building".
The Russian Embassy advised the Russians in the country not to leave their homes. It also said that they did not ask for help.
"The President of the republic, Umaru Sissoco Embalo, and Prime Minister Nuno Nabiam are still in the vicinity of the government house," the embassy added.
They also pointed out that none of the political forces of Guinea-Bissau has so far claimed responsibility for the storming. The airport, banks, government agencies and businesses in the city were shut down after the start of the shooting, the Russian embassy informed.
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
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Based on materials from TASS