East Timor's President Jose Ramos-Horta is in a stable condition after he was shot in the stomach by rebel soldiers in a pre-dawn attack, a spokesman said.

Alfredo Reinado, a renegade soldier who had threatened to use force against the government, was killed by presidential guards during the attack.

Gunmen also opened fire on a convoy carrying Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao, but no-one was injured.

Mr Gusmao described the incidents as an attack on the state.

The attack on Mr Ramos-Horta happened at around 0600 on Monday (2100GMT Sunday).

Two cars drove past the president's house on the outskirts of the capital, Dili, and shooting began, army spokesman Major Domingos de Camara said.

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