The Houthi rebels have released 178 civilians and soldiers of those who were captured during months of confrontations with the army that ended last month, according to some media outlets.

The captives were handed to a committee supervising the implementation of the ceasefire terms in Saada province that was put into effect on February 11.

They would be transferred to Sana'a on Thursday. The release coincided with the arrival of about 120 policemen to preserve peace and boost security in the province as the ceasefire goes on.

The deployments were aimed at establishing a good environment to help the refugees to return to their homes and impose the rule of law.

Forces from the Central Security Command have been also dispatched to Saada to help boost security as well.

On February 11, the government and the Houthi group agreed a ceasefire ending a six-year war in Saada.

The ceasefire terms included that the rebels withdraw from their positions and hand captives and equipment.