Military unrest, gunfire paralyze city areas in Ivory Coast
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ABIDJAN -- Gunfire and continued threats by mutinous soldiers in several cities in Ivory Coast led banks, schools and businesses to close Monday amid fears of fighting.
Former rebels who joined the army and demand bonuses shot gunfire into the air, taking over strategic parts of Yamoussoukro, San-Pedro, Bouake and Abidjan.
The army chief of staff said a military operation was in progress to combat the mutinous soldiers, specifically in their stronghold Bouake. On Sunday, he had called on them to disarm, and said those who continue to threaten civilians and defy authorities will face disciplinary action.
"We are waiting for the state to reassure us, but we see no one yet. This silence is worrying for us," said Sory Bamba, a taxi driver in Abidjan's commercial district.
