Yemen: Fatalities reported as Aden protesters clash with STC forces

A peaceful demonstration in Aden’s Khor Maksar district escalated into violence as members of the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) opened fire on participants, resulting in at least two fatalities and several injuries, according to sources from Yemen Press Agency.

The protest, referred to as the “Million Ashal” march, was organised to demand information regarding the fate of the abducted Lieutenant Colonel Ali Ashal Al-Jaadani. Among the deceased were Muhammad Dabban Al-Kazmi and Walid Lakou Al-Nakhai, who were fatally shot during an attempt by STC members to disperse the demonstrators by forcefully entering the parade square.

Yemen Shabab reports that the security committee in Aden issued a statement, attributing the unrest to “infiltrating elements” allegedly responsible for instigating riots and chaos. The statement reported the deaths of Muhammad Saleh Al-Ward, a police officer, and Muhammad Salem Al-Kazmi, a civilian, along with the injury of another civilian, Khadr Ahmad Khadr.

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The Saudi-backed authorities have denied responsibility for the violence, accusing external provocateurs of infiltrating the peaceful protest. The committee reiterated its support for legitimate humanitarian causes, including the case of Al-Jaadani, and the right to peaceful demonstration within the bounds of the law.

Despite increased security measures and transport disruptions, large crowds persisted in defiance of an official ban on the protest. Security forces cautioned against the exploitation of demonstrations to incite chaos, target security personnel, and disrupt public order.

Adding to the tension, the summer heat is exacerbating the dire economic situation in the interim capital of the internationally-recognised Yemeni government. Residents face near-constant power outages, with electricity available for only six hours each day, despite temperatures reaching up to 40°C.

The city, controlled by both the Saudi-backed government and the STC, is struggling with a collapsing currency, further fuelling protests against poor living conditions. The economic crisis and inadequate electricity supply have led to widespread unrest, with authorities cracking down on demonstrators.

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