Security sources within the Houthi-controlled Ministry of Interior in Sana'a have revealed extensive redeployments of police personnel and vehicles to frontlines, particularly in Taiz and southern Hodeidah, indicating a significant shift in resource allocation under pressure from battlefield losses. Three sources, including a leader in the Judicial Police, confirmed that the militia has transferred between 20% and 40% of its police force to Taiz governorate for active combat roles. This mobilization encompasses elements from the Judicial Police, various police departments across Sana'a, and urban centers. Furthermore, approximately 70% of police vehicles and patrols have been rerouted to confrontation lines and recently secured territories. The recruitment drive extends beyond traditional combat units, involving formations designated for purely security and judicial functions, such as the Judicial Police and facility security units. A commander within the Judicial Police stated, "A schedule has been set for all Interior Ministry personnel in police departments, facility security, and the Judicial Police to transfer to the Taiz frontlines. Approximately 25% of my assigned force is currently on the front lines in Taiz." These developments align with admissions from captured Houthi security officials, who have appeared in video recordings detailing their participation in battles around Taiz city and the western parts of the governorate, as well as in enforcing security in newly captured districts of southern Hodeidah. Field reports indicate a dual strategy for these deployed forces: direct combat engagement on the front lines around Taiz city and western fronts, and establishing rear-echelon security in recently occupied areas. This allows the Houthis to redirect other units toward active combat zones. In a related move, the Houthi militia has replaced existing police personnel in these areas with new recruits specifically brought in from Sana'a, Amran, Hajjah, Dhamar, Ibb, and Saada governorates. Analysts suggest this policy carries strategic implications, aimed at granting Houthi leadership greater direct control over local apparatus and diminishing reliance on individuals who might have pre-existing social or professional ties to the local population, which could impede the militia's security and political agenda. |
