Head of Central African Republic armed forces assassinated in Bangui

The head of the Central African Republic armed forces has been killed and his teenage son injured in an attack in the capital, Bangui.

Marcel Mombeka was reportedly shot twice in his car while travelling in the restive PK5 neighbourhood, in Bangui.

The United Nations peacekeeping force in the country says it's assisting with investigations into Mombeka's death. The country's army has faced increased pressure in recent months following resurgence in sectarian tensions.

The country has been in crisis since the coup that ousted President Francois Bozize. The government has condemned the latest killing - blaming it on elements bent on destabilizing the nation.

CCTV