Houthi Militiamen Block Yemen's Largest Water Plant Over Extortion Demands

Houthi militiamen loyal to the Houthi terrorist militia imposed a blockade on the Shumlahan mineral water factory, the largest water production facility in the Yemeni capital Sana'a, on Wednesday, bringing its operations to a complete halt.

Sources within the factory stated that the Houthi blockade aimed to compel the factory's management to pay illegal financial levies. The militiamen reportedly sealed the main gates of the facility, located in the Hadda area south of the capital, early in the morning and burned tires at the entrances. This action disrupted truck movements and prevented employees and workers from entering or leaving.

Eyewitnesses reported that the armed individuals also forced nearby businesses to close under threat of force, accompanied by a heavy security presence around the factory. This was perceived as an attempt to pressure the factory's administration into complying with financial demands described as "forced extortion."

Factory workers confirmed that the Shumlahan management had requested intervention from security agencies under Houthi control to end the blockade and secure the facility. However, these agencies allegedly refused to act, leading to accusations of complicity with the armed group.

The shutdown has resulted in a complete cessation of production and distribution activities, creating a tense atmosphere around the factory and raising concerns about the escalating crisis's impact on the company's operations and the local market's supply.

This incident occurs amidst repeated pressures exerted by the Houthis on the private sector. Economic sources indicate that the imposition of exorbitant levies and taxes has led to the closure of companies or forced their owners into partnerships with individuals associated with the group.