Aden (South24 Center)

On Saturday, (August 2), in a highly sophisticated counter-espionage operation, the Security Belt Forces in Yemen's capital Aden arrested an individual suspected of belonging to the intelligence apparatus of the Iran-backed Houthi militia. 

In an official statement, the forces revealed that the suspect, a 33-year-old man, was apprehended while conducting surveillance and filming sensitive military and government sites in the Seera district, including the presidential Ma'ashiq Palace, the official residence of Yemen's internationally recognized government.

According to the statement, the suspect was using disguised spy devices in an audio player (MP3) equipped with live internet streaming capabilities to monitor security officials' movements and gather visual intelligence.

The Security Belt Forces confirmed that the detainee was in direct contact with a senior Houthi leader and had received instructions to carry out complex intelligence missions, including recruiting operatives for field surveillance. Some of these recruits were later arrested.

Investigations revealed the suspect's involvement in monitoring and documenting commercial ship movements off Yemen's western coast, particularly in the Mocha, Dhubab, and Mayun Island areas. Security authorities described these activities as a threat to national security and sovereignty.

Notably, the accused was part of the administrative staff of the Central Bank of Yemen and resided in Seera district where he was arrested.

A court-authorized search of his home uncovered electronic devices, espionage-related documents, and evidence linking him to drug smuggling allegedly used to fund his intelligence operations.

This arrest follows the Yemeni Interior Ministry's announcement on July 26 of dismantling of a seven-member cell accused of spying for the Houthis. The group allegedly smuggled youths into Sana'a for training in conducting sabotage and espionage missions in government-held areas, luring them with money.

Unofficial statistics indicate that since early 2025, security forces have uncovered 11 Houthi-linked spy cells across Aden, Marib, Taiz, Hadramout, Abyan, Al-Mahra, and the western coast, highlighting the escalating intelligence war in Yemen's prolonged conflict.