WEB DESK
Zimbabwe’s military seized power on Wednesday in what its supporters described as a “bloodless correction.”
The army put President Robert Mugabe under house arrest while providing assurances that the 93-year-old leader and his family were “safe and sound and their security is guaranteed.”
Soldiers and armored vehicles blocked roads outside Zimbabwe parliament and other key government buildings.
The military has taken control but said President Robert Mugabe, in power since 1980, is safe.
After seizing state TV, an army spokesman announced it is targeting people close to Mr Mugabe. South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma later said he had spoken to Mr Mugabe who had indicated that he is confined to his home but said that he is fine.
BBC Correspondents say, the move may be a bid to replace Mr Mugabe with his sacked deputy, Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The dismissal of Mr Mnangagwa last week had left Mr Mugabe’s wife Grace as the president’s likely successor.
Heavy gun and artillery fire could be heard in northern parts of the capital Harare early today.
A statement read out by a general on-air denied it was a coup. There is no immediate word from the president himself.
93-year-old Mr Mugabe has dominated the impoverished country’s political scene since independence from the UK. Mr Zuma earlier said he hoped events in Zimbabwe would not lead to unconstitutional changes of government.
The UK Foreign Office advised Britons, currently in Harare to remain safely at home or in their accommodation until the situation becomes clearer.
The US embassy in Harare advised US citizens in Zimbabwe to shelter in place until further notice.
China, Zimbabwe’s biggest trading partner, says it is closely watching the situation and hopes that the relevant parties can properly handle their internal affairs.
After unrest in Zimbabwe that triggered speculation of a coup, Indian Embassy in Harare has said, Indian community is safe there.
In a tweet, the Embassy said, the situation in Harare is calm and Embassy staff, Indian Community, both People of Indian Origin and expat are safe and there is no reason for concern and worry.
Zimbabwe’s army took control of the country and said it had taken President Robert Mugabe and his wife in custody.
