UN human rights chief demands investigation after Yemeni staff member dies
Volker Turk called for the release of all detained UN personnel following the death of Mohammad el Shami in Houthi custody.
A Yemeni staff member of the UN Human Rights Office has died while being held by Houthi militants, according to a report by the Hindustan Times.
UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk stated on Saturday that Mohammad el Shami had been arbitrarily detained since June 6, 2024.
The official said the family was only recently notified of the death, which happened more than a month ago, without any explanation regarding the circumstances.
Turk has called for a thorough and independent investigation into the matter and demanded the immediate release of all other detained UN staff, humanitarian workers, and civil society members.
Yemen's prime minister condemned the death and held the Houthi group responsible, stating that those involved must be held accountable.
The prime minister noted that over 70 UN employees and many humanitarian workers are still being held in detention.