NCIAVHR Pays Visit to Lahj Detention Center, Pledges Action on Detainee Rights

Lahj | May 21, 2025

On Wednesday, the National Commission to Investigate Alleged Violations of Human Rights (NCIAVHR) conducted a field visit to Al-Ihtiyat Prison, previously known as the Fifth Brigade facility, which is operated by the Security Administration of Lahj Governorate. This visit is part of the Commission’s ongoing efforts to evaluate the conditions of detainees and ensure adherence to legal and human rights standards.

The visiting team consisted of Judge Sabah Al-Alwani, Judge Ishraq Al-Maqtari, and Judge Jihad Abdul Rasool. During their visit, the team toured the prison’s facilities, which currently house 88 individuals, including convicted prisoners and pretrial detainees. They assessed the detention environment against the standards of dignity and safety outlined in international conventions and Yemeni national law, particularly the Prisons Regulation Law.

The Commission members listened to testimonies from several detainees regarding their detention conditions. They reviewed the legality of the detainees’ situations and the procedures in place, documenting the detainees’ requests for improved living conditions and a quicker resolution to their legal cases to safeguard their rights.

The Commission highlighted the need to enhance detention center conditions and strengthen collaboration with judicial and security authorities to uphold the rule of law and protect detainees’ rights.

During the visit, the team met with Brigadier General Nasser Al-Shouhati, the Security Director of Lahj Governorate, who emphasized the importance of coordinating with human rights organizations to improve institutional performance, address the needs of correctional facilities, and ensure compliance with relevant laws.

The team also spoke with Colonel Khaled Al-Janidi, Director of Al-Ihtiyat Prison, and Judge Ali Al-Hariri, Prosecutor for Investigation and Prisons in Lahj. They detailed key challenges, including shortages of electricity and water services, food, medical care, and sanitation. Additionally, they stressed the need to enhance judicial oversight to expedite legal proceedings and reduce extended periods of detention.

The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to conducting regular field visits to detention centers across the country as part of its mandate to monitor and document violations and to ensure the protection of human rights and the rule of law.