Yemeni security high on news from Tripoli

SANAA, Yemen, Aug. 22 (UPI) -- Security through much of Yemen was reportedly ramped up as word spread that the regime of Libya's Moammar Gadhafi was falling, witnesses said Monday.

Libyan rebel forces by Monday claimed control of much of Tripoli and were said to have members of Gadhafi's inner circle in custody.

The so-called Arab Spring that began with a December protest suicide in Tunisia has spilled over to much of the Arab world, threatening the 33-year reign of Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh.

Witnesses told the Yemen Post that as word spread of gains made by rebels in Libya, security was ramped up across much of the country. More than 60 tanks were seen patrolling Sanaa, the report added, noting increased activity in and out of the presidential palace grounds.

Saleh was wounded in a June 3 attack on his compound and has since been in Saudi Arabia recovering from severe burns and other injuries. Since his recent release from a military hospital, he's vowed to return to Yemen "soon."

The report noted that opposition groups in Yemen shouted anti-government slogans in the streets after hearing news of Gadhafi. A security source, however, said troops were given orders to use force to prevent a coup.