Armed group enters Burundi from Rwanda, clash with army: official

Burundian soldiers on Friday clashed with unknown militants who had entered Kayanza province from neighboring Rwanda, a local official has said.

"This Friday morning, several gunmen made an incursion in Rugazi zone in the Kibira natural forest, near the border with Rwanda," Kayanza Province Governor Canisius Ndayimanisha told Xinhua.

One militant was captured, two others were injured and have been taken to a local health center, he said, adding that the identity of the gunmen is still unknown.

Meanwhile, witnesses told Xinhua that between 300 and 500 militants had taken two hills in the area by 13:30 local time, while the soldiers sealed off the two hills.

"I saw two injured soldiers, one killed assailant, two injured assailants and another assailant who surrendered to the soldiers," a witnesses said.

The gunmen were wearing military uniforms, the witnesses said.

The incursion takes place amid turmoil in Burundi since late April sparked by President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid for a third term in office.

Opponents say his move violates the constitution that sets a two-term limit for the president. They have staged protests and clashed with police.

Nkurunziza survived a coup attempt on May 13. Endi