The Houthi militias have imposed new royalties on a number of traders of second-hand goods and commercial merchants in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa. The Iran-backed group is looking to exploit the holy month of fasting, Ramadan, and other religious events to maximize its profits while leaving the Yemeni public poor.
The Houthi robbery and extortion campaigns were accompanied by the kidnapping of dozens of citizens and owners of shops in separate areas and streets of Sanaa. The victims were taken to unknown locations after they refused to submit to the demands of coupists.
Local sources in Sanaa reported to Asharq Al-Awsat that Houthi gunmen stormed shops and imposed new royalties on merchants in one of the city’s largest second-hand markets.
The royalty consisted of imposing an amount of 500 rials on the sale of any piece, with the group threatening those who violate its orders with a financial fine and confiscating the goods in the violator’s possession.
According to sources, the new Houthi royalties imposed two days before the start of Ramadan are an extension of the same royalties that the group imposes on vendors and shop owners, in an effort by the group to fill its treasury with money at the expense of Yemenis.
Eye witnesses reported to Asharq Al-Awsat Houthis shutting down three stores in one of Sanaa’s neighborhoods and kidnapping their six owners after they refused to pay the new royalty.
The militias have recently stepped up their arrests, violations and criminal practices against citizens and shop owners in Sanaa and other areas under their control.
In the Moein district, Houthi gangs carried out dozens of armed campaigns to impose royalties and levies under various pretexts.
Informed sources in Sanaa told Asharq Al-Awsat that Houthi elements riding four military vehicles carried out extensive campaigns that lasted for several days, during which a number of shops, private facilities and companies were forced to pay money.
