Witnesses in Burkina Faso say dozens of soldiers took to the streets late Tuesday and fired shots into the air in the country's second largest city.

Residents say the protest began at a military barracks in the city of Bobo-Dioulasso. There are conflicting reports about whether the soldiers looted businesses and buildings.

The West African country has seen a string of protests by soldiers, police, teachers and students in recent months, mostly in the capital, Ouagadougou.

The unrest started in February with protests against rising food prices, crime, and slow government reform.

In April, President Blaise Compaore dissolved his government, appointed a new prime minister, and named new security chiefs as part of efforts to stay in power.

President Compaore has ruled the country since seizing power in a 1987 coup. He was re-elected to another term last November.