Soldiers in the West African nation of Benin have announced on national TV that they have ousted President Patrice Talon and seized power.

A message from the French embassy in Benin said gunfire had been reported near the residence of the president.

The soldiers also announced a suspension of the constitution and closure of all land borders and the country’s airspace.

According to their statement, Lieutenant-Colonel Tigri Pascal will be leading a military transition council.

Talon, 67, is due to step down next year after completing his second term in office.