Yemeni security source: Al-Qaeda leader Batarfi among 300 prisoners freed from Mukalla prison

A security source said that Al-Qaeda leader Khaled Batarfi was among a group of prisoners freed by gunmen from the Central Prison on Thursday in the city of Mukalla, eastern Yemen.

Eyewitnesses in Mukalla reported that gunmen, who are believed to be Al-Qaeda militants, attacked the presidential palace, the central bank and the prison in the city.

A security source, who requested anonymity, told Anadolu Agency that the attackers released around 300 prisoners, including Batarfi.

Al-Qaeda has not yet issued a statement confirming or denying their involvement.

Batarfi is one of Al-Qaida in the Arabian Peninsula’s (AQAP) top regional commanders. He is known for his leading role in a 2011to 2012 battle with Yemeni government troops during which extremists seized large parts of the south and east.

Yemen has descended further into chaos since a Saudi-led coalition launched air strikes a week ago against positions held by Shia Houthi rebels.