Macau arrests 'not linked' to US attack

A bomb robot was reportedly used to open several suspect suitcases

Police in Macau say five Pakistani men arrested at the weekend are part of a crime group and denied press reports they could be linked to possible attacks on American interests in Macau or Hong Kong.

Following the arrests, the US consulate in Hong Kong which oversees Macau has been closed.

Earlier, the Reuters news agency reported the men were suspected of planning attacks on American targets in Macau and in nearby Hong Kong.

It quoted an unnamed Macau official as saying the men were found with documents that appear to contain instructions to attack American targets if the United States launches attacks against Afghanistan.

The five men were picked up late on Sunday night, after police received a tip-off, possibly from the US consulate in Hong Kong.

A spokesman said the consulate would remain closed indefinitely while security measures are reviewed.