Forces backing Alassane Ouattara have attacked those loyal to disputed President Laurent Gbagbo in Ivory Coast's main city, Abidjan. Heavy gunfire was heard in two districts close to military bases late on Monday. Reports say it extends the conflict without reaching the all-out civil war feared by many. Mr Gbagbo refuses to step down although Mr Outttara is widely recognised as the winner of last year's election. This is the first time there has been fighting in the pro-Gbagbo suburb of Yopougon and the pro-Ouattara area of Adjame since the stand-off began last December.

Sources say it remains unclear whether the pro-Ouattara forces gained any ground or just launched attacks from their strongholds in the northern suburb of Abobo. The areas were said to be quiet on Tuesday. A police source says pro-Gbagbo forces remain in control of the CRS military barracks in Adjame. "We are busy carrying out a sweep of the area, but the fighting was very, very hard," the source said.