Guinea: Presidential spokesperson asserts reports of gunfire in vicinity of Presidential Palace in Conakry 'false and fabricated' late Sept. 26 /update 1

Guinean Presidential Spokesperson Amara Camara has asserted that reports of gunfire in the vicinity of the Presidential Palace in the Kaloum area of Conakry were "false and fabricated" late Sept. 26. He has also encouraged individuals in the Kaloum area and in Conakry, more broadly, to resume their daily activities. Camara did not immediately provide additional clarification regarding the incident.

Earlier reports claimed that gunfire was accompanied by a heightened military presence and the use of tear gas in Kaloum, with military personnel locking down and evacuating the city center. Roadblocks, traffic jams, and business closures were also reported amid the unrest. Unconfirmed reports have suggested that the accidental discharge of a firearm in the area may have prompted the panic; officials did not immediately comment on the veracity of that explanation.

Residual increased security and disruptions to transport and business will likely affect the Kaloum area of the capital over the short term.