Gunfire is heard and soldiers take over main roads in the capital of the West African state of Guinea-Bissau, according to reports.

Internet giant Google reports a large jump in profits and sales as well as announcing a two-for-one split of its shares.

The authorities in Peru rule out negotiating with Shining Path rebels who kidnapped a group of gas workers in the Cusco region for ransom.

The UN Security Council calls for an immediate and unconditional end to fighting on Sudan's southern border.

Two members of the US Coast Guard in Alaska are found dead, prompting fears of murder, but no suspects or motives have yet been identified.

In a controversial but widely-expected move, North Korea launches a long range rocket, South Korea's defence ministry says.

US President Barack Obama defends the wife of his Republican rival, Ann Romney, and says there is "no tougher job" than being a mother.

Prototype contact lenses designed to offer troops enhanced vision are ordered by the US military's research lab.