Including Natural Reserves: National Investigation Committee Continues Documenting UAE Violations in Socotra
Yemen Monitor / Newsroom:
The National Committee to Investigate Allegations of Human Rights Violations has concluded its field mission to Socotra Governorate, documenting violations committed by Emirati forces during their control over the archipelago.
According to the committee, the visit was based on complaints and reports received regarding violations in the archipelago. The team listened to testimonies from victims and witnesses concerning a detention center containing cramped cells, where the freedom of several workers, activists, journalists, and politicians was restricted.
The committee’s team documented data regarding the detention center’s capacity, dimensions, and periods of use to complete investigation procedures and analyze the circumstances of the arrests.
The committee members also conducted a field visit to the “Diksam” Natural Reserve following reports of assaults on its territory that placed endangered trees and birds at grave risk. The team reviewed the damages reported by specialists and experts.
The visit covered vital facilities, service institutions, and economic projects, including:
- The Port and Customs
- The Fisheries Sector
During these visits, reports were received from directors and citizens regarding damages resulting from the suspension of their activities between 2021 and 2025.
In the same context, Judges Hussein al-Mashdali, Muhammad Talyan, Nasser al-Awdhali, and Ishraq al-Maqtari heard testimonies from deputy governors and heads of local offices and districts. These officials confirmed they were forcibly prevented from performing their duties.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to documenting these reports to strengthen human rights protections and ensure justice for victims. It called upon security, military, and administrative authorities to uphold their responsibilities in safeguarding public freedoms and ensuring the rule of law.
