Houthi Forces Besiege Residential Area, Raid Homes in Ibb Governorate

Houthi militia forces have conducted security operations in the city of Ibb and its surrounding areas, including surrounding a residential neighborhood and raiding several homes. This action occurs amidst growing civilian complaints regarding deteriorating security and rising crime rates in the governorate, which is under the control of the Iran-backed militia.

Local sources and residents reported that dozens of Houthi militants, accompanied by military vehicles, encircled a residential area near the National University in central Ibb early Saturday. They subsequently raided two homes within the neighborhood. The militia has not disclosed the reasons for the operation or the identities of the targeted individuals, and details surrounding the raids remain undisclosed.

In parallel incidents, residents from various parts of Ibb governorate reported that their homes were subjected to gunfire and attacks by local armed groups. Residents allege these groups are connected to influential Houthi leaders. Sources indicated that armed individuals targeted the home of citizen Essam Shaddad and another residence in the Al-Manqoudah area, at the Habish junction in the Al-Makhader district, north of the governorate. Residents described these incidents as part of a pattern in a region experiencing increased activity from armed gangs.

Residents in Al-Makhader district have accused the Houthi-aligned authorities of overlooking the movements of these groups, stating they maintain close ties with local militia leadership and contribute to spreading fear and chaos among civilians. Similarly, local sources in the Al-Sabrah district, southeast of Ibb, reported the presence of similar armed groups firing upon civilian homes, raising significant concern among residents, particularly women and children.

Residents have called upon the authorities to implement measures to halt these attacks and apprehend those involved, emphasizing that the security vacuum is worsening in several districts of the governorate. Reports from human rights organizations and local testimonies indicate a notable increase in killings, robberies, and armed assaults by Houthi militia elements and leaders in Ibb governorate in recent years.