Nigerien President Mohamed Bazoum was detained Wednesday in the capital city of Niamey after failed talks with members of his presidential guard who had blocked access to the presidential palace.

According to a source close to the presidency who spoke anonymously, the presidential guard initially refused to release Bazoum after the talks concluded. The Nigerien army then reportedly issued an ultimatum to the rebellious guards.

In a message posted to Twitter, the Nigerien presidency indicated that elements of the presidential guard had attempted an “anti-republican” action on Wednesday morning, trying in vain to gain the support of the national armed forces.

The presidency affirmed that the national army and guard are prepared to confront the mutinous guards if they do not stand down. The statement also said President Bazoum and his family remain unharmed.

The West African nation of Niger has faced chronic political instability and military interference since achieving independence from France in 1960. The attempt by the elite presidential guard to detain President Bazoum marks the latest chapter in Niger’s history of military activity shaping politics.