Forces aligned with the Southern Transitional Council (STC) arrested a youth activist, on Monday, amidst ongoing protests in Aden, the interim capital. The arrest is linked to the activist's participation in recent demonstrations demanding urgent improvements to public services.
 
Local and human rights sources confirmed to "Baran Press" that Fouad Al-Daiqan, an Adeni activist, was taken from his home by STC security forces. His arrest follows his active involvement in protests in the Khormaksar district, which have highlighted severe deficiencies in essential services, particularly electricity, and the general decline in Aden.

Sources indicated that before his arrest, Al-Daiqan faced an organized incitement campaign by STC supporters. This reportedly stemmed from video clips showing him discussing the dire conditions during a youth protest a few days prior.

Al-Daiqan's detention has sparked widespread anger among Aden's residents, who are increasingly frustrated by a series of arrests targeting young individuals involved in the recent protests. Many remain in custody despite efforts to secure their release.

Last Saturday, May 17, Al-Orouth Square in Khormaksar saw a furious protest, part of a continuing wave of demonstrations condemning the persistent breakdown of services. Electricity outages, in particular, have reached critical levels, with some areas experiencing more than 20 hours of daily blackouts.

Protesters in Al-Orouth Square chanted slogans decrying the collapse of services and the daily struggles faced by Aden's residents due to power cuts and the decline of other vital sectors, including education and healthcare.

During the protests, armed individuals reportedly affiliated with the STC fired shots, preventing demonstrators from leaving the square and actively dispersing the crowds.

On the same day, Aden's Security Committee announced a ban on "organizing any demonstrations or public events at the present time," citing the need to ensure their peacefulness and adherence to legal regulations by organizers.
Since May 10, Aden has also seen a growing women's movement advocating for an end to the deteriorating living, service, and educational conditions in the city designated as the country's interim capital.