The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) has condemned an attempted military coup in The Gambia that seeks to overthrow the government of President Adama Barrow.

Ecowas said in a statement that it was “utterly dismay and shock about the news of an attempted coup in the Gambia”.

The regional bloc said it “strongly condemns the attempt to overthrow the democratically elected government of the Gambia and underscores ECOWAS total rejection of all unconstitutional change of government in any member State.

“ECOWAS Commission salutes the leadership and personnel of the Gambia security services for their adherence to their constitutional role and for foiling this illegal plot. 

“ECOWAS Commission stands firmly by the democratically elected government of the Gambia and once again reiterates its total condemnation of the attempted coup plot.”

The foiled coup plot was announced yesterday (21 December) by The Gambia government. 

At least four suspected soldiers have been arrested while three other soldiers are said to be on the run.

This is the second attempted coup plot against Barrow’s government since he came to power in 2017.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba