USA Africa Dialogue Series - New Forces Closing In On Gbagbo

Ivory Coast fighters move in on entrenched leader

By RUKMINI CALLIMACHI

The Associated Press
Monday, March 14, 2011; 8:21 AM

ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast -- Fighters allied with Ivory Coast's internationally recognized president say they are trying to seize control of a district loyal to the incumbent leader who refuses to cede power.

A witness in Abidjan's Yopogoun neighborhood says heavy fighting started early Monday near the home of the army chief loyal to entrenched leader Laurent Gbagbo. A commando allied with recognized president Alassane Ouattara claimed responsibility but asked not to be named because of the sensitivity of the issue.

The offensive shows that the fighters, who call themselves "invisible commandos," are moving south toward Gbagbo's presidential palace.

Officials could not provide information on deaths or injuries.

Violence has increased in Ivory Coast since both men claimed victory in a November poll.