Chaos erupts in Zimbabwe's capital amid growing political unrest and rumors of a coup

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Chaos erupts in Zimbabwe's capital amid growing political unrest and rumors of a coup

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Diego Azubel-Pool/Getty Images

Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe

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Chaos has erupted in the Zimbabwean capital of Harare.

There were reports of multiple explosions in the city and a heavy presence of armed soldiers in the early hours of Wednesday morning local time. Soldiers have also taken control of the headquarters of state broadcaster ZBC, according to Reuters.

The Associated Press reported seeing armed soldiers assaulting civilians and loading ammunition into military vehicles. At least three explosions were heard near the University of Zimbabwe.

The US embassy in Harare has announced it will be closed on November 15 and there are reports it has advised US citizens in the region to shelter in place.

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Due to ongoing uncertainty in Zimbabwe, the U.S. Embassy in Harare will be minimally staffed and closed to the public on November 15. Embassy personnel will continue to monitor the situation closely. @StateDept

- U.S. Embassy Harare (@usembassyharare) November 15, 2017

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