Saudi-backed forces launch arrest campaign against STC leaders, activists in Aden

ADEN, Feb. 21 (YPA) – Saudi-backed forces launched, on Friday, a security campaign and widespread raids targeting leaders and activists of the “dissolved” Southern Transitional Council in the governorates of Aden and Lahj, following the recent escalation of tensions in front of Ma’ashiq Palace.

 

Local sources reported that the campaign included a heavy security deployment and the establishment of surprise checkpoints, coinciding with extensive field investigations, to arrest leaders loyal to the Transitional Council who participated in the bloody protests in front of Ma’ashiq Palace, which serves as the headquarters of the Saudi-backed government.

 

The joint campaign by “Homeland Shield” and “Giants” forces began raiding the homes of wanted individuals, in what they termed “criminal cases and acts of sabotage” targeting public order in the city, the sources added.

 

They indicated that Saudi-backed forces are preparing to launch a wave of raids and incursions in several residential neighborhoods in Aden, with the aim of arresting activists who participated in Thursday night’s protests in front of Ma’ashiq Palace gate in Crater district.

 

These moves come amid accusations that the UAE is behind the pro-Southern Transitional Council protests demanding the expulsion of the Riyadh-backed government from Aden, signaling a new round of the escalating power struggle in the southern provinces.