21.   But British newspapers accused Yemeni authorities of intervening prematurely.

22.   British newspapers accused the Yemeni authorities of premature intervention.

23.   British officials have been assured by Yemeni authorities that no force would be used in an attempt to release Brooke, the Foreign Office in London said Sunday.

24.   But British newspapers accused the Yemeni authorities of premature intervention in the case.

25.   But a government official denied the accusation, saying Yemeni authorities have supported the party financially.

26.   But Yemeni authorities have begun cracking down, seizing the ships and punishing their crews.

27.   By handing the files to the judiciary, Yemeni authorities are moving the case from police investigators to the chief prosecutor, who will shepherd the case through trial.

28.   Despite problems in the investigation, Yemeni authorities say eight suspects have confessed to roles in the bombing.

29.   Dudley would not say whether any Yemeni authorities were involved in the investigation.

30.   Doutriaux said the Foreign Ministry had no other information about the diplomat but was in close contact with Yemeni authorities on winning his release.