Guinea: Gunfire and military deployments in Conakry, Sept. 5 /update 2

Event

Heavy gunfire and military deployments have been reported in Conakry, Sept. 5. Soldiers have reportedly ordered residents to remain indoors. Several foreign embassies have also advised their nationals to remain indoors. Gunfire has occurred in Coleah, Kaloum, Camayenne, and at a presidential guard's barracks in the Boulbinet area. Soldiers have also deployed or recently gathered near the Presidential Palace, Conakry Autonomous Port, and the 8 November Bridge. Unconfirmed reports indicate that at least three soldiers have been killed. The status of Conakry International Airport (CKY) is unclear.

Earlier Sept. 5, President Alpha Conde was reportedly confronted by unidentified assailants at the Hotel Kaloum. The president is reportedly unharmed. The reason for the insecurity is unclear; however, a connection to a recent government decision to increase the budget for the presidency and parliamentarians and decrease the budget for the security services is possible.

Security forces will likely remain deployed in the coming hours. Movement restrictive measures are likely in places, and telecommunication disruptions are possible. Depending on security service assessments, movement restrictive measures could also be imposed outside of Conakry. Disruptions to state and business operations are likely. Clashes between rival security force factions may occur. Protests in response to developments can not be discounted. Any gathering is likely to be met by a security force deployment. Clashes are likely at all protest locations.

Advice

Shelter in place until the situation becomes clearer or stabilizes. Consider deferring travel to Conakry until the situation stabilizes. Monitor local media and maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Avoid concentrations of security personnel. Plan for road travel delays. Reconfirm all scheduled transport services, including flights, before departure. Avoid all protests.