Côte d'Ivoire: Gunshots in Abidjan July 19

Event

Gunshots were reported between 22:00 and 22:30 (local time) on Wednesday, July 19, at the Cocody Police Academy in Abidjan. The assailants reportedly pointed their guns at passing cars in order to stop traffic and steal vehicles. They also allegedly stole weapons from inside the police compound. Eyewitness sources reported the armed men were soldiers with bullet-proof vests. No injuries have been reported and the situation has reportedly stabilized.

Context

These incidents occurred just hours after the announcement of the appointment of a new defense minister, Hamed Bakayoko, a close ally of current President Alassane Ouattara. The move was seen as a way to discipline the army, following several mutinies that have occurred since the beginning of the year. Armed clashes involving mutinous soldiers have become relatively common in Côte d'Ivoire.

Côte d'Ivoire experienced a drawn-out political crisis from 2002 to 2011 but is now considered one of Africa's most promising economies, the largest in francophone West Africa. However, the country's military continues to suffer from large internal divisions stemming from long-standing animosities among current soldiers (opponents in previous conflicts) and a lack of reform.

Advice

Individuals present in Abidjan are advised to keep abreast of ongoing developments and to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities or their home governments.