The SAM Organization for Rights and Liberties warned of an impending wave of trials being planned by the Houthi rebels to suppress its opponents and consolidate their control.
In a statement issued Monday, the organization noticed that the Houthis’ announcement of a “foreign spy network” comes in the context of preparing public opinion for a new judicial and security campaign targeting opponents and activists. It considered this a pretext to justify widespread arrests and violations against civilians.
SAM added that the group is using charges of espionage and collaboration as a cover to impose an atmosphere of fear and surveillance, and to undermine the remaining independence of the judiciary and fundamental rights in areas under its control.
The organization called on the United Nations and the Human Rights Council to intervene urgently to stop these practices and secure the release of all arbitrarily detained individuals, stressing that the continuation of these violations threatens the justice system and deepens the suffering of civilians in Yemen.