STC-Affiliated Forces Distribute Weapons to Civilians in Mukalla Before Departure
Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
The American Center for Justice (ACJ) stated on Sunday that it has received numerous reports from residents of the city of Mukalla indicating that forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC) distributed weapons to their supporters and civilians before departing the city.
The Center confirmed that this step is being taken outside of any legal or institutional framework and is being utilized for private military and security purposes.
Such behavior is considered a serious violation of International Humanitarian Law, as it involves the militarization of civil society, exposes civilians to danger, and undermines the rule of law.
The Center warned of the repercussions of these practices on civil peace and security, as they spread security chaos, expand the scope of violence, and pave the way for human rights violations.
The ACJ called for the immediate collection of these weapons and to be restricted exclusively to the Yemeni Army and official security institutions as a fundamental condition for restoring security, consolidating the rule of law, and protecting civilians.
