Soldiers in the West African nation of Benin have announced on national television that they have seized power from President Patrice Talon.
President Talon had previously stated his intention to step down next year after completing two terms in office.
The French embassy in Benin reported gunfire near the residence of the president.
The military group declared the suspension of the constitution and the closure of all land borders and the country's airspace.
Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal was identified as the leader of a military transition council.