Houthi forces loot government and humanitarian sites in Al Mokha

Following the Houthi movement's takeover of the coastal city of Al Mokha in western Yemen, widespread looting of private homes, government facilities, and humanitarian headquarters has been reported. Local sources indicate that Houthi elements have seized furniture, appliances, and essential contents from residential areas such as the 'Second of December' and Al-Hali neighborhoods, transporting them out of the city.

Governmental and financial institutions have also been targeted. Reports state that Houthi leadership directed the seizure of contents from local authority offices and the branch of the Central Bank of Yemen. Additionally, Houthi forces seized control of the city's airport, removing equipment, files, and records.

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) condemned the seizure of a humanitarian complex and facilities belonging to UN and international organizations, noting the confiscation of eight vehicles belonging to the UN humanitarian center. Human rights sources suggest these actions have impacted approximately 18,000 families dependent on food aid and halted support for 30 health facilities across six coastal districts.

The instability has led to a decline in basic services, including near-total electricity outages, sharp increases in the price of essential goods like cooking gas, and the imposition of a new exchange rate for the US dollar. Furthermore, over 1,500 humanitarian workers have reportedly lost their livelihoods due to the suspension of organizational activities.