The capital of Burkina Faso is being attacked by suspected Islamic extremists after explosions and gunfire erupted.
Police chief Jean Bosco Kienou said the form of the assault on Ouagadougou “is that of a terrorist attack”.
Sporadic gunfire could be heard, and helicopters are now flying near the French embassy.
Heavy smoke can be seen coming from the army joint chief of staff’s office in Ouagadougou. Witnesses said loud explosions could still be heard around the army headquarters.
Witnesses at the national television office which faces the French Embassy said that five people arrived in a pick-up truck in front of the embassy and started shooting after saying “Allahu Akhbar”. They then set fire to the truck before resuming their attack.