Burundi presidency reacts to coup declaration by army general, says it's fake

Burundian presidency has reacted to the coup declaration by Burundi's army general Godefroid Niyombare earlier today. Gen Niyombare had told reporters that he has dismissed the government of President Nkurunziza following massive protest against his third term bid which has led to many deaths. Reacting, the presidency said people involved in the coup plot will be arrested. Read below...

"It is with regret that we have learned that a group of soldiers rebelled this morning and made a fake declaration about a coup. The Presidency of the Republic wants the public opinion both in Burundi and abroad to know that this coup attempt has been stopped and that the people who read that statement on private local radio are being sought by the defence and security forces so that they are brought to justice. The Presidency of the Republic is asking the people of Burundi as well as foreigners to keep calm. Everything is being done to maintain security across the national territory."

Meanwhile Burundi citizens have taken to the streets to celebrate with soldiers after the coup was announced. See the photos after the cut...