Suspected kidnappers arrested in Yemen

The authorities in Yemen say seven people have been arrested on suspicion of kidnapping foreigners.

The move is part of a drive to end the frequent abductions of tourists and foreign workers.

The arrests follow the sentencing of five other Yemenis on kidnapping charges.

Correspondents say the kidnappers are often tribesmen who use their hostages to barter for government services or the release of relatives.

Most hostages are released unharmed, but two years ago four Westerners were killed in a rescue attempt.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service