Yemen: Brigadier Al-Nouba Released 

Defend International

Oslo // Defend International had raised concern about the safety of Brigadier Nasser Al-Nouba and others who were detained in Southern Yemen, urging the authorities to release them immediately. We are extremely relieved that they have been released.

Brigadier Nasser Al-Nouba, the chairman for the Retired Soldiers from the south of Yemen, with hundreds of civilians and retired soldiers were arrested on August 02, 2007 after protesting in Liberty Square in Aden. They were at risk of torture and other ill-treatment. Yemeni forces used teargas, water cannons and ammunition. As a result several were injured and some were killed.

Defend International had raised the issue and declared that they were prisoners of conscience. DI urged the authorities to release them immediately and unconditionally as they were detained because of participation in a peaceful demonstration. Defend International also called for their protection from torture and for their right to be given regular access to their families, lawyers and any medical treatment they may need.

On 7 August 2007, we received a report from our DI Defenders who mentioned that the security forces in Yemen had released Brigadier Nasser Al-Nouba and others. Defend International welcomes this decision.