Military in control of Guinea after deaths

CONAKRY, Guinea, Feb. 14 (UPI) -- The deaths of 23 people in a recent series of demonstrations in the African nation of Guinea have led to the president declaring martial law.

In the wake of last weekend's bloody demonstrations, President Lansana Conte declared martial law throughout the nation and imposed a curfew as the military attempts to regain control, the BBC said.

The demonstrations began after Conte, who has led Guinea since his 1984 coup, violated a union agreement by naming his close ally, Eugene Camara, as the country's prime minister.

Since the military took control after Monday's declaration by Conte, countless area businesses have shut down as demonstrations have been met with a swift response from troops.

With the military allowed to use force when deemed necessary, four people have been reported shot by soldiers.

The BBC said that with no end date specified for the military rule, the United States has begun plans to airlift several U.S. citizens from Guinea as soon as possible.