The human rights organization SAM for Rights and Freedoms has condemned the case of controversial security commander "Yusran Al-Maqtari" as a stark reflection of the absence of the rule of law in Aden, the temporary capital of Yemen.

In a statement released Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, SAM expressed deep concern over the announcement by the Aden Security Office on Thursday, August 1st, that Al-Maqtari was considered a fugitive from justice. The organization linked Al-Maqtari's escape to the growing influence of armed militias in the city.

SAM highlighted the precarious security situation in Aden, characterized by the presence of militias operating outside the legal framework and implicated in serious crimes. These militias, according to SAM, have fostered an environment conducive to chaos and insecurity.

The organization further emphasized the complexity of the situation, citing the presence of narrow political agendas and internal and external support for these militias, which contribute to the prolonged conflict and hinder efforts to restore stability to the city.

SAM pointed out that Al-Maqtari's escape exemplifies how internal divisions and the weakness of state institutions can lead to widespread lawlessness. It reinforces the notion that the absence of the rule of law empowers militias to operate independently, exacerbating insecurity and further complicating matters.

SAM described Al-Maqtari as a key figure in human rights violations in Aden, promoting chaos outside the purview of the law through his authority as head of the Counter-Terrorism Unit. He has been accused of numerous crimes, including assassinations, kidnappings, arbitrary arrests, and torture in prisons, negatively impacting the lives of civilians and eroding trust in official security forces.

The organization stressed the urgent need for strict measures to deter these militias and dismantle their activities. SAM also highlighted its previous warnings about the encroachment of militia power, which has usurped state functions like arrests, investigations, and prison management, operating outside judicial oversight. Militia leaders have established independent security zones, acting with impunity and perpetrating serious violations, including enforced disappearances and torture, amounting to war crimes.

SAM emphasized that Al-Maqtari's case cannot be viewed in isolation from the unchecked power of militias operating outside the control of the Yemeni state and the rampant corruption within security frameworks. This corruption has created an impenetrable barrier to the implementation of the law, bolstering the strength of militias.

The organization urged the implementation of measures to combat corruption, including the establishment of clear mechanisms for holding corrupt officials accountable and ensuring transparency in all security operations.

SAM called for decisive action, including the integration of all security agencies into the legitimate forces under the supervision of the Ministries of Interior and Defense. It stressed the need for a comprehensive response addressing the root causes of the crisis by strengthening state institutions, reinforcing legal frameworks, and providing appropriate training for security personnel.

The organization asserted that the security situation in Aden demands immediate attention and coordinated efforts to rectify the course and ensure a safe environment for citizens. SAM declared that addressing Al-Maqtari's case represents a crucial first step in this direction.

On Thursday, August 1st, 2024, Aden Police Chief Major General Muthar Al-Shaibi announced the results of investigations into the kidnapping of Sheikh Ali Abdullah Ashal Al-Ja'adani, who was abducted on June 12th, 2024, in Aden. Al-Shaibi named the main suspects in the case, including Yusran Al-Maqtari, Samer Al-Jandab, Ahmed Zidan, Samih Al-Norghi, Tamam Al-Bata, Bakil Mukhtar, and Mahmoud Al-Hindi.

Al-Shaibi revealed that Al-Maqtari and his deputy, Samer Al-Jandab, fled the country two days after Al-Ja'adani's abduction, on June 16th. He stated that the Interior Ministry had been contacted to request Interpol's assistance in apprehending and extraditing the suspects to Yemeni authorities.

Tribes from Abyan Governorate, to which Al-Ja'adani belongs, have demanded answers regarding his whereabouts since his abduction in Aden on June 12th, 2024.

On July 14th, 2024, Attorney General Qaher Mustafa issued a decision appointing Judge Azzam Ibrahim Ahmed Abdul-Magni, head of the technical office at the Public Prosecution Office, to investigate Al-Ja'adani's disappearance. The decision granted the head of the technical office the authority of the Attorney General to handle serious crimes related to the case.

On Saturday, August 3rd, 2024, Bran Press reported that large crowds were gathering in the Al-Aroud Square in Khor Makser district in Aden to participate in a peaceful demonstration demanding the disclosure of Al-Ja'adani's fate. There were reports of casualties as forces loyal to the Southern Transitional Council attempted to prevent participants from entering the square.