Military officers announce takeover in Guinea-Bissau as President Embaló reportedly arrested

Military officers in Guinea-Bissau say they have seized control of the country following a day of confusion and gunfire in the capital, Bissau, amid reports that President Umaro Sissoco Embaló had been detained.

Government sources told the BBC that Embaló was arrested shortly after shots were heard near key government installations around 13:00 GMT on Wednesday.

Witnesses reported people fleeing on foot and in vehicles as gunfire echoed through central Bissau.

Appearing later on state television, senior officers announced the suspension of the country’s electoral process and declared that the military would assume control until further notice.

The nation had been awaiting the results of Sunday’s presidential poll, in which the main opposition candidate had been disqualified.

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Both Embaló and his main challenger, Fernando Dias, had already claimed victory. Official results were expected on Thursday.

In a phone call with France 24, Embaló stated: “I have been deposed,” confirming his removal from office.

A televised statement was read by General Denis N’Canha, head of the military household at the presidential palace, who said a group of officers had formed what they called “the High Military Command for the Restoration of Order.”

He announced the closure of all borders and urged citizens to remain calm.

Reports indicate that, in addition to the president, several ministers and senior army staff members have also been arrested.

Guinea-Bissau, a nation of just under two million people, has a long history of political instability and has experienced nine coups or attempted coups since independence from Portugal in 1974.

Embaló has previously claimed to have survived multiple coup attempts, though critics contend he has exaggerated threats to tighten his grip on power.

The UN has described Guinea-Bissau as a “narco-state” due to its strategic role in cocaine trafficking between Latin America and Europe, a factor analysts say has further complicated its fragile political landscape.

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