The Foreign Office has told British nationals and tourists in Harare to stay indoors after the army took control of the country.
Loud explosions were heard early on Wednesday morning in Zimbabwe’s capital – but defence services have denied a military takeover.
Zimbabwean defence forces took control of state broadcaster ZBC overnight and Major-General SB Moyo issued a statement on air that it is ‘targeting criminals’ around Mugabe.
The statement said Mugabe and his family were safe and this is ‘not a military takeover of government’.
The FCO updated its advice to British nationals this morning to say: "Due to the uncertain political situation in Harare, including reports of unusual military activity, we recommend British nationals currently in Harare to remain safely at home or in their accommodation until the situation becomes clearer.
"Please continue to monitor our travel advice and embassy social media accounts for updates.
"You should avoid political activity, or activities that could be considered political, including political discussions in public places and criticism of the president.
"You should avoid all demonstrations and rallies. The authorities have sometimes used force to suppress demonstrations."
There are reports that tourists in Victoria Falls are carrying on as normal.
