2 Yemeni security officers killed in shootout with suspected al-Qaida members

SAN'A, Yemen – SAN'A, Yemen (AP) — Yemen says two security officers have killed and three injured in a shootout with suspected al-Qaida militants in a southern town.

An official statement Monday said two suspects were arrested after the clashes in Mukalla, in southern Hadramwat province. It gave no further details.

Residents told The Associated Press a security force surrounded the suspects' hideout during the 45-minute shootout. The witnesses said the militants lobbed grenades at the force, prompting a hail of gunfire.

The witnesses, who spoke on condition of anonymity fearing reprisals, said the wanted militants escaped.

Yemen's security forces are grappling with a number of armed groups, including al-Qaida.

Their raids have occasionally failed, and militant responses are increasingly daring.