Armed Gang Attacks Homes in Ibb, Injuring Child Amidst Accusations of Houthi Complicity

A child sustained critical injuries as an armed gang unleashed indiscriminate gunfire on civilian homes in the Al-Amouqin village, Sayyani district, south of Ibb Governorate, which is under Houthi control. Local sources accuse the Houthi militia of complicity in the escalating violence.

The injured child, Mohammed Farouk Ali Nasser, from the neighboring Al-Abra village, was struck by a bullet to the head and is receiving treatment in a serious condition. The village of Al-Amouqin has been living in fear for weeks, with over 52 homes repeatedly targeted, causing widespread panic among residents.

According to local sources, an armed gang from the Al-Hattar and Al-Oudi families opened fire on the home and vehicle of citizen Ahmed Abdo Qasim Al-Banaa on Friday while residents were performing Friday prayers. The attack also resulted in the death of a donkey tied near one of the houses.

In the early hours of the following day, a member of the gang reportedly threw a grenade at the home of citizen Qaed Saleh Al-Abadi, injuring his wife with shrapnel. Subsequently, gang members continued to fire intensely on more than 50 houses in the village.

Sources implicated the armed gang, identified as belonging to the Al-Hattar and Al-Oudi families, in the assaults, alleging they receive support from influential Houthi figures. They also highlighted the neglect of reports filed by residents by the security authorities affiliated with the Houthi militia, despite appeals to the Red Crescent police chief, who has failed to take action to halt the attacks or protect civilians.

Residents are urgently calling for intervention to cease the violence, protect civilians, and hold those involved accountable, citing the ongoing security vacuum that threatens their lives and property.