SAM - Geneva: The SAM Organization for Rights and Liberties stated in a press release today, Friday, August 25th, that journalist Majli Al-Samadi was subjected to a severe physical assault, including being beaten on his face and throughout his body, yesterday, Thursday, by a gang while he was returning to his home in the Al-Safia area in Sana'a.

According to a post by journalist Majli Al-Samadi on his Twitter account yesterday, Thursday, a gang of five individuals attacked him near his residence in Al-Safia neighborhood, beating him. He mentioned that the gang threatened him with further violence if he did not stop writing.

The photos published by journalist Majli Al-Samadi revealed shocking evidence of visible bruises and redness on his face and mouth. In his commentary on what he had experienced, Al-Samadi stated, "This is a pivotal day in my life that I could never have imagined."

I never imagined that there would come a day in Sana'a when I would be robbed and looted, but then came the day when I was also physically assaulted! I never realized that brutality had reached such levels.

Having seen this image, like you, I am deeply disturbed, even though I am fine now," Sam emphasized that resorting to gang violence does not negate the fact that the "authorities of the de facto regime in Sana'a" bear full responsibility for what is happening in the areas under their control, including violations and abuses against journalists and activists.

SAM emphasizes that freedom of expression is a fundamental right protected by the law, and no one has the right to seize this right under any circumstances.

The Houthi group deliberately tightens control over the activities of journalists and media professionals. In July 2022, the Ministry of Information, affiliated with the Houthi group, closed "Sawt Al-Yemen" radio station, which was illegally owned by Al-Samadi. Armed individuals stormed the radio station and looted its contents. The Houthi group has refused to reopen the radio station to this day, despite a court order issued at the end of 2022 demanding its reinstatement.

SAM strongly condemns the incident and expresses full solidarity with journalist Al-Samadi. Sam calls on the international community to contribute to the protection of journalists under the authority of the Houthi group and to exert pressure on the Houthi group to conduct a transparent and independent investigation into the incident, holding those involved accountable for their actions. Sam also demands the provision of protection and guarantee of the safety of journalists and activists in areas under their control.