Police in the West Bank say they are holding Iyad Hardan, a 22-year-old leader of Islamic Jihad, who is accused by Israel of masterminding the car bombing in Jerusalem at the beginning of November.

Jerusalem radio station Voice of Israel has reported that he was picked up eight days ago in Jenin.

They quoted an unnamed Israeli security official officials praising the Palestinian Authority for arresting Hardan, adding that security cooperation has been increased since Palestinians have acted on Israeli intelligence information.

Police console a woman injured in the bombing

Mr Hardan is accused of recruiting the two suicide bombers who killed themselves and wounded more than 20 Israelis in the attack at the Mahane Yehouda market.

His detention follows the agreement concluded with Israel last month under which the Palestinians promised tougher action against militants.