Gambian officials have denied that the presidential palace in Banjul was the scene of a failed coup attempt despite widespread reports of heavy gunfire emanating from the vicinity on Tuesday.
Gambian officials have denied that the presidential palace in Banjul was the scene of a failed coup attempt despite widespread reports of heavy gunfire emanating from the vicinity on Tuesday.
According to the BBC, Gambian state radio said that "contrary to rumours being circulated, peace and calm continue to prevail" in the West African state.
But an earlier statement by an unnamed government official acknowledged a foiled coup attempt by a group of soldiers, some of whom were said to have been members of the presidential guard. Three of the alleged attackers including the ringleader are said to have died at the scene of the clashes.
Gambian President Yahya Jammeh has ruled the tiny West African country since 1994 when he was installed as president after a successful coup.