Clashes break out between STC, Tariq Alash forces in Aden

ADEN, June 12 (YPA) – Armed clashes broke out Thursday between the UAE-backed mercenary factions in the southern port city of Aden, local sources reported on Friday.

According to the sources, the infighting erupted between protection guards of  Ma’shiq Palace affiliated with Southern Transitional Council (STC, and armed elements of loyal to Tariq Afash forces in Aden.

Earlier reports stated that Tariq Afash threatened to withdraw his fighters from the front lines in Abyan province, following the clashes that broke out in Krater district, during the adoption of a field plan from the UAE side, to involve Tariq Aafsh gunmen in maintaining security in Aden.

The reports explained that the two sides used medium and light weapons in the clashes, without any casualties on both sides.

The sources confirmed that the “Tariq’s forces” retreated towards camp Bir Ahmed, amid negotiations between the UAE to hand over two military points “Al-Alam and Dawvas ” to the forces “Tariq Afash”, which was rejected by the STC, considering this a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the “south”.

According to Observers, the UAE is seeking to empower the “Tariq Afash” militants to protect the city of Aden.

E.M