THE ZIMBABWE MILITARY HAS TAKEN CONTROL AFTER CRISIS

The move may be a bid to replace Mr Mugabe with his sacked deputy, Emmerson Mnangagwa a former defence minister, spy chief and veteran of the war of independence.

This is all about the leadership succession, as Mr Mugabe's powers finally falter

The dismissal of Mr Mnangagwa last week had left Mr Mugabe's wife Grace as the president's likely successor.

Mr Mugabe, 93, has dominated the impoverished country's political scene since independence from the UK.

Army chief Gen Constantino Chiwenga, who visited China last week, said on Monday the army was prepared to act to end purges within Zanu-PF.

Troops in armoured vehicles have been out in the streets of the capital Harare since Tuesday.

After soldiers overran the headquarters of the ZBC broadcaster, Maj Gen Sibusiso Moyo went on air to say the military wished to "assure the nation that his Excellency the president... and his family are safe and sound and their security is guaranteed

"We are only targeting criminals around him who are committing crimes... that are causing social and economic suffering in the country," he said.

"As soon as we have accomplished our mission, we expect that the situation will return to normalcy.

Currently people in Harare warned to remain safely at home or in their accommodation until the situation becomes clearer", while the US embassy in Harare advised US citizens in Zimbabwe to "shelter in place"until further notice.