Soldiers in the West African nation of Benin have announced on national TV that they have ousted President Patrice Talon and seized power.
A message from the French embassy in Benin indicated that gunfire had been reported near the president's residence. The soldiers also announced a suspension of the constitution and closure of all land borders as well as the country's airspace.
According to their statement, Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal will lead a military transition council.
Talon, 67, is due to step down next year after completing his second term in office.
