HAMID & AHMAD AL-SHAMAIRIJEDDAH/SANA'A: Negotiators in Yemen continue to mediate for the release of kidnapped Saudi diplomat Saeed Al-Malki and local tribes from Sana'a have formed a cordon around the zone where he has been held for nine days. A tribal source told Okaz/Saudi Gazette that mediators are still in the village of Al-Sareereen where Al-Malki is being held by kidnappers who are seeking to force the payment of SR5 million to cover the debt of another Saudi owed to a Yemeni from Yafe'e. The area has been closed off to prevent his abductors leaving the area and negotiators are seeking a voluntary and unconditional release of the hostage. Al-Malki is reportedly in good health. Sources said that the Saudi Embassy in Sana'a is continuing to work with all relevant Yemeni parties to secure the diplomat's release. Al-Malki was kidnapped from Al-Hada Street in central Sana'a Friday before last.
