Gunmen launched fierce attacks on army and security posts in Arhab area, some 30 km north of the Yemeni capital of Sana'a, security sources told Yemen Post on Sunday.
Armed groups attacked Republican Guards units positioned in Arhab area, local security source said on condition of anonymity because he is not authorized to speak to the press, adding that the groups used in their attacks mortar shells machine guns, and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPG).
Local sources told Yemen Post anonymously that the armed groups bombarded the 3rd Infantry Brigade, 83rd Republican Guards Brigade, 62 Mechanized Brigade, and 63 Infantry Mountainous Brigade for several hours on Sunday.
Pick up vehicles mounted with machine guns, mortars, and gunmen were seen moving in the area and arrive to Wasal hill of Arahb, which has become known for being used as attacks launching site against the army.
Last week, the army stepped up its attacks on their posts and managed to kill at least 3 of them.
Arhab tribesmen have denied the presence of al-Qaeda in their area, accusing the Yemeni government of trying to portray some tribesmen as being al-Qaeda elements.
Tribesmen from Arhab have been fighting with some units of the Republican Guards since early 2011, when tribal gunmen tried to stop republican guards units from exiting their area as they thought they were going to take part in the crackdown against peaceful protesters.