Journalist Detained in Lahj; Family Demands Release and Investigation

The family of journalist Hassan Al-Basili and activists are demanding his immediate release, unless he is being held under clear legal charges. They are calling for his swift referral to the competent Public Prosecution if accusations exist, and for him to be afforded all his legal rights, including the right to defense and communication with his lawyer and family.

The family emphasized that raiding homes and detaining individuals without explicit judicial orders constitutes a violation of the law and due process. They hold the executing authority responsible for his physical and psychological safety and demand a prompt, transparent investigation and accountability for those involved.

According to local sources, a security force affiliated with the Security Administration of Al-Mudharibah and Ras Al-Ara district raided Al-Basili's home at approximately 4:00 AM on Saturday, April 18th. The operation was reportedly led by the district's Security Director, Muthanna Zlit.

The family's report states that the security force apprehended him and took him to an unknown location without presenting an arrest warrant issued by the competent judicial authorities. They clarified that Al-Basili works as a teacher at the Kharaz camp and has no personal disputes, in addition to his journalistic activities.

The family further indicated that the reason for his detention, as they were informed, is related to his posts on Facebook. They noted that they requested the presentation of a legal warrant from the Public Prosecution, but the response was that there were "directives from higher authorities" without providing official documentation.

The family reiterates its call to the competent authorities to respect the rule of law and the guarantees of a fair trial, as these are fundamental principles that cannot be bypassed under any pretext.