Oman 'arrests hundreds over plot'
[From:http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/4209645.stm]

At least 100 suspected extremists have reportedly been arrested in Oman over alleged plans to attack a festival.
The arrests were made over several days across the country, diplomats told Associated Press news agency. A cargo of arms was also reportedly seized.

Oman's al-Hayat newspaper said rumours suggested those arrested had "planned explosions" targeting the cultural festival in the capital, Muscat.

Officials have refused to comment so far but may do so in the next few days.

Accounts of the number arrested vary from 100 to 300. None are thought to have been charged.

Among those arrested were professors in Sultan Qaboos University and the Theology College, many of them known to be fundamentalists, AP reported.

Festival 'boycotted'

Citing information and rumours circulating in the sultanate, al-Hayat said "social and military officials" were among the suspects.

The paper said the authorities had moved against them after a cargo of arms was discovered when the truck carrying them was involved in an accident.

The festival, which began with the start of Eid al-Adha, was "boycotted by Islamists who deem it against the precepts of Islam", al-Hayat added.

More than two million people from Oman and elsewhere are expected to enjoy its shopping, cultural activities, entertainment and sports before it ends on 18 February.

Unlike neighbouring Saudi Arabia, Oman has not witnessed any terror attacks and is not regarded as a potential target for extremists.

In 1994, the Omani authorities announced the arrest of 200 alleged extremists, who were convicted of belonging to a secret, violent group and given sentences ranging from the death penalty to jail terms. They were later pardoned