The _Austrian Independent _referred to Yemeni newspaper reports that the ransom was paid by the sultanate of Oman. Oman is said to have paid out 16 million dollars for the release of the Austrian captive and that four million was paid to tribal leaders who acted as intermediaries.
In total Oman is said to have paid a total of 50 million dollars (close to 40 million euros) for the release of all three.
The reports have not been confirmed by official sources.
The Finnish Foreign Ministry has said that Finland did not pay ransom for the release of any of the hostages.
