The Presidency has issued communication that the attempted coup has been thwarted and the leaders arrested. The President tweeted that he is back in the country and that "constitutional order" had been protected.

However, the former Chief of Intelligence, Gen Godefroid Niyombare who led the attempt is on the run.

"I hope they won't kill us," he told AFP when contacted. "We have decided to surrender," he added, noting that the forces loyal to Nkurunzinza were on the way to get him.

This comes with uncertainty as there have been gun fights reported in the capital. Niyombare said that "overpowering military determination" and the fact that most of the forces wanted the President in power made the attempt unsuccessful.

We'll keep you updated on the latest developments!