Local sources in Lahj Governorate, southern Yemen, reported on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, that an explosion targeted a car belonging to an officer in the Southern Giants Brigades in the Fayush area of Tabn District, located on the road connecting Lahj and Aden.

Sources speaking to "Barran Press" said the explosion was caused by an improvised explosive device (IED) targeting the vehicle of "Sultan Bajash Al-Atri," a member of the security detail for the commander of the 2nd Giants Brigade, Brigadier General Hamdi Shukri.

The sources stated that Al-Atri and his companions, including several women, were injured in the blast. The driver's leg was severed, and they were transported to hospitals in Aden for treatment.

The sources noted that security forces have not yet commented on the incident, despite the explosion causing a loud bang and panic among those present, as it occurred in a crowded area near a popular qat market.

The incident comes as thousands of residents gather to commemorate the Million Man March for the release of "Ashal" in the Al-Mansoura District's parade ground. This event follows the announcement by Aden security forces of the names of those involved in Ashal's kidnapping, who have fled the country.

The million-man march was called for by a preparatory committee of individuals from Abyan Governorate, Ashal's home province. Ashal was abducted in Aden on June 12th, 2024, and his whereabouts remained unknown.

Since Friday night, forces affiliated with the Southern Transitional Council (STC) have been deployed throughout Aden's streets, amid an escalation to prevent the demonstration. These forces have also abducted several members of the preparatory committee.