Yemeni Interior Ministry said Sunday its security agencies foiled an attempt to bomb an oil pipeline southeast of capital Sanaa.

According to a report released by the ministry, a police patrol exchanged fire with a 42-years old man while he was attempting to booby-trap an oil pipeline in Jihana district, some 30 km southeast to capital Sanaa.

The statement which identified the man as A. S. al-Maiety said his right hand was wounded during the clash with the police before managing to flee the scene.

Security authorities said they believe the suicide bomber escaped to an area called Sour al-Lakama in Jihana district, where he lives, to receive treatment, adding that "he may then headed to unknown destination, or he is likely to rush to a hospital in the capital Sanaa."

Security agencies are still chasing the man, the statement said.

On Saturday, Yemeni security forces foiled a suicide bombing attempt by a suspected al-Qaida member who was arrested in Khalaf district while riding a motorbike with an explosive belt around his body and two explosive devises in possession.