“In the context of the many mass demonstrations over the past few months, we have documented a number of unlawful arrests, arbitrary detention and the targeting of journalists,” said OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani at a press briefing in Geneva this afternoon.

“One protestor was killed in Ibb last week, when special forces under the control of the Houthis reportedly used live ammunition to disperse demonstrations,” she added.

“So far, no investigations appear to have been initiated into such violations and abuses, fuelling a long-standing lack of accountability for violations committed in Yemen in recent years.”

OHCHR said it has shared these concerns with relevant authorities, in particular its call for justice and accountability for human rights violations and abuses.

“It is crucial that all sides exercise restraint and work to resolve the political impasse in a peaceful manner and to avoid the situation from spiralling out of control,” Shamdasani said.

Photo: OCHA