Houthi militia intensifies security presence in Ibb streets following calls for a solidarity rally with Sheikh Bashar’s family.

Houthi militias intensified their security presence in the city of Ibb last night, following calls for a solidarity demonstration in support of the family of Sheikh Sadiq Bashar. The Sheikh was tragically killed last month by a Houthi gang in Sana’a.

Increased Security Measures in Ibb

Informed sources reported that the Houthi militias doubled their security forces in the center of Ibb Governorate. They deployed new security personnel across various streets, particularly around the eastern gate of Ibb University and the surrounding roads. This move appears aimed at intimidating citizens and preventing any potential protests amid rising public tensions.

Riot Control Forces Mobilized

Among the newly deployed forces, the militias included riot control units. This strategy seems designed to deter citizens from organizing protests, reflecting the militia’s fears of facing a similar fate as the regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria.

Calls for Solidarity and Justice

Young activists and supporters of Sheikh Bashar’s family have called for a solidarity demonstration today, Saturday, at the eastern gate of Ibb University. They aim to pressure the militias to cease concealing the murderers and expedite their investigation.

Promises of Accountability

A source from Sheikh Bashar’s family stated that the militias, via intermediaries, promised to hand over five of the fugitive killers and to begin their investigation today. The Bashar family and their supporters continue to demand the arrest of all gang members involved in the murder, resisting the pressures and evasions employed by the militias to shield their security personnel.

The Incident that Sparked Outrage

On November 25, Houthi elements, led by “Alawi Saleh Qa’id Al-Amir,” appointed by the militia as the head of the Alaya Police Department in the Shumaila area, ambushed Sheikh Sadiq Bashar. The ambush occurred in the Dar Salm roundabout, south of Sana’a, where they opened fire on his vehicle, killing him after stealing his money and personal belongings.

The situation in Ibb remains tense as citizens demand justice and accountability for the heinous crime against Sheikh Bashar. The community’s call for solidarity underscores the growing unrest and the desire for transparency and justice in the face of violence.

 

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