SANAA, Yemen

Calm returned to the vicinity of a main prison compound in Yemeni capital Sanaa Thursday following clashes between security guards and militants, a security source said.

"The situation has been brought under control after security reinforcements were sent to the area," the source told Anadolu Agency.

According to the source, policemen were deployed around the prison compound and tightened their control on entrances and exits.

Militants had earlier tried to break into the prison compound, firing mortar shells and throwing hand grenades.

No casualties have so far been reported.

Five revolutionary figures are reportedly being held at the prison, along with criminal convicts and Al-Qaeda-linked militants.

By Maarab al-Ward

englishnews@aa.com.tr