Yemen: 31 Casualties from Firearms Misuse in Liberated Areas During June

Police in Yemen's liberated governorates reported 27 incidents involving firearms misuse and indiscriminate shooting in June 2026, resulting in 7 deaths and 24 injuries. Authorities reiterated warnings about the dangers of these practices and urged adherence to laws governing firearm possession and use.

According to security statistics released by the police, the fatalities included one child and one woman, with the remaining victims aged between 18 and 35. Injuries ranged from moderate to severe, primarily affecting individuals between 20 and 40 years old, many of whom required hospitalization.

The statistics indicated that the majority of deaths occurred due to victims mishandling firearms themselves. Two individuals were killed by their siblings, and a third died from a gunshot by someone outside their family. Fifteen incidents resulted from self-inflicted accidents, four were caused by friends of the victims, and two involved a family member.

Police attributed most incidents to celebratory gunfire at weddings and social events, negligent handling of weapons, and violations of firearm regulations and safety protocols. Geographically, Al Dhale and Marib governorates recorded the highest number of incidents with five each, followed by Lahj, Hadramaut Coast, and Shabwah with three each. Hajjah and Al Mahrah saw two incidents apiece, with the remaining distributed across Taiz, Abyan, Hadramaut Valley and Desert, and Al Hudaydah.

Security forces affirmed their commitment to ongoing measures aimed at curbing armed displays and enforcing firearm laws, intensifying surveillance at city entrances, apprehending offenders, and prohibiting celebratory gunfire to protect lives and property.

Citizens were urged to refrain from firing weapons during events and to comply with legal directives concerning firearm possession and use, as these practices pose a direct threat to civilian lives and endanger public safety and security.