Burundian rebels deny they're ousted

There are conflicting claims about fighting in the Burundian capital, Bujumbura.

The government says its troops have dislodged Hutu rebels of the National Liberation Forces from their positions in the city.

But correspondents say no independent observers have been taken into the city to confirm this.

The rebels say reports that they've been ousted from the northern suburb of Kinama are untrue.

Calm was reported to have largely returned to the city during the day.

But observers say that, after two weeks of heavy fighting, Burundi's capital remains in a state of virtual blockade. Three regional air companies suspended flights on Wednesday following deteriorating security in the capital.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service