Mutinous army soldiers attack the home of the president

Mutinous soldiers from Guinea-Bissau's army attacked the residence of President Joao Bernardo Vieira in the early morning hours on 23 November 2008. Reports indicate that Vieira was inside his home in the Tchon de Pepel district of Bissau when the gunmen launched a surprise attack. In addition to targeting Vieira, local news reports claim the attackers broke into an arms depot at the residence and stole weapons and ammunition, including rocket launchers. Security forces exchanged fire with the attackers in a three-hour gun battle. One of the attackers was killed and several presidential guards were injured; part of the president’s residence was allegedly destroyed. Vieira was unharmed. Authorities stated that they brought the situation under control by the morning of 23 November. Five of the soldiers involved in the attack have been arrested, while four others remain at large. The head of the military assured the public that the military will continue to submit to the civilian authorities. The attack comes two days after the announcement of results from recent parliamentary elections and draws concern of possible unrest in the county.