Grave Violations by the STC in Aden; Reports of Arrests and Abductions

Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
The Yemeni Presidency has described the restrictions imposed by the Southern Transitional Council (STC) on citizens’ movement into the city of Aden as a “grave violation of the Constitution” and a “clear breach of the Riyadh Agreement,” warning of serious repercussions for civilian rights and the humanitarian situation.
In an official statement, the Presidency stated that preventing citizens from moving or restricting their movement based on regional or political grounds represents unacceptable behavior that contradicts state principles and the law. It added that such actions undermine efforts aimed at restoring stability and alleviating the suffering of citizens.
The Presidency called on the STC for an “immediate and unconditional end” to all restrictions imposed on the movement of citizens and to guarantee the freedom of travel to the temporary capital, Aden, without any obstacles.
In the same context, the Presidency revealed that it has received credible reports of arrests and abductions taking place in Aden. According to the statement, these actions were carried out under the directives of the leadership of the Security Belt Forces, which are affiliated with the STC. The Presidency considered this a “dangerous escalation and a flagrant violation of public rights and freedoms.”
The statement emphasized that the State will take the necessary measures to protect civilians, ensure their constitutional right to freedom of movement, and hold those responsible for any violations accountable. It stressed the necessity for all parties to adhere to signed agreements and respect the authority of the State and its institutions.
This position comes amid increasing complaints from citizens regarding closures and restrictions on roads leading to Aden, accompanied by arbitrary security practices that have exacerbated the suffering of travelers and negatively impacted living and humanitarian conditions.



