Gunfire and explosions rocked the capital, frightening civilians who hid in their homes.
Military spokesman Colonel Gaspard Baratuza told state radio today that 20 of the attackers were arrested, including one who was wounded and is receiving treatment at a military hospital. Baratuza says five soldiers were wounded.
However, soldiers, who insisted on anonymity because they are not authorised to speak to the media, said three soldiers were killed.
Baratuza said the goal of the assailants was to steal weapons and use them free prisoners. Several hundred people have been imprisoned in Burundi for opposing President Pierre Nkurunziza's election this year to a third term.