Chad’s government insisted the situation in the capital N’Djamena was stable after gunshots were heard near the presidential palace.

Foreign Minister Abdurrahman Kulamala said in a video apparently recorded inside the palace that there had been a “minor incident” but that “everything was calm.”

Sources close to African governments said there were clashes between security forces and “terrorists”.

French news agency AFP quoted Kullamala as saying that 18 attackers and one member of the security forces had been killed.

The agency said tanks were seen in the area following the incident and all roads leading to the palace were closed

In a video posted on Facebook, Kullamala can be seen surrounded by members of the government army.

“Nothing serious happened,” he said.

“We are here and we will defend our country at the cost of blood. Stay calm.

“This whole attempt to destabilize was thwarted.”

He was later seen posing with soldiers and raising his fist.

AFP quoted Kullamala as saying the attack was carried out by a 24-man commando team, adding that six of the attackers were wounded.

Three other members of government forces were also injured, he added.

The incident came hours after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited the former French territory and met with President Deby and other senior officials.