Insurance scam alleged to involve Greek cargo ships

An Israeli police explosives expert and three other Israelis have been arrested for allegedly plotting to sink four Greek cargo vessels in an insurance fraud.

The arrested officer is said to have been recruited by two employees of a private security company and a businessman, acting on behalf of the ships' owner, an unnamed Greek shipping tycoon.

The officer was arrested when he allegedly tried to obtain underwater explosives, which he said were to be used in an undercover operation abroad.

The arrests were made two weeks ago, but a court order prevented the publication of any details until Sunday.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service