NCIAVHR Inspects Hadibo Detention Center and Documents Violations Against Activists and Natural Assets in Socotra Archipelago

Socotra | 31 January 2026

The National Commission to Investigate Alleged Human Rights Violations (NCIAVHR) concluded a field mission in the Socotra Archipelago Governorate, fulfilling its mandate to investigate reported violations and evaluate the impact of recent events in the region.

The mission responded to reports concerning violations since the last visit, aiming to assess the human rights and humanitarian conditions of Socotra’s residents.

Following testimonies from victims and witnesses, Commission members visited a site identified as a detention center. They inspected the facility’s narrow rooms, where the detention of workers, activists, journalists, and political figures had been carried out. The team examined detention wards, recording data on capacity, space, duration, and methods of detention to support their investigation.

Additionally, the Commission visited Dixam (Diksam) Nature Reserve after reports of encroachments and threats to endangered trees and bird species. Experts provided testimonies and assessments of the environmental damage.

The team also evaluated local service institutions, including the port, customs, and fisheries projects. Representatives and citizens reported damages resulting from the suspension of activities between 2021 and 2025.

Moreover, judges Hussein Al-Mashdali, Mohammed Tulyan, Nasser Al-Awthali, and Ishraq Al-Muqtari listened to the testimonies of ten government officials, including district and deputy governors, who reported being prevented from performing their duties.

As it concludes this important mission, the NCIAVHR affirms its commitment to ongoing investigation and documentation efforts. It remains open to all victims’ complaints, aiming to promote human rights, justice, and compensation for those harmed, regardless of cause or perpetrator.

The Commission urges security, military, administrative, and service authorities to fulfill their legal duties in safeguarding freedoms, protecting social and economic rights, and upholding the rule of law.