Ivory Coast: Ouattara forces surround Gbagbo in Abidjan

Forces loyal to the UN-backed president of Ivory Coast, Alassane Ouattara, are pressing on the main city of Abidjan from several directions.

Their offensive threatens to make a battleground of the city, the last stronghold of presidential rival Laurent Gbagbo.

Mr Gbagbo's army chief earlier sought refuge with South Africa's ambassador.

The UN says Mr Gbagbo lost last year's election to Mr Ouattara, but he has so far refused to cede power.

  • Africa