Local Red Cross officials in the capital of Central African Republic say at least 17 people are dead after fighting between rebels and residents.
The violence comes three weeks after fighters from the rebel alliance known as Seleka invaded the capital and overthrew President Francois Bozize.
Bozize, who had ruled for a decade, had himself come to power through a rebellion.
Residents of Bangui said they awoke Sunday to heavy gunfire rattling across the capital.