Yemen: UN seeks independent investigation into employee’s death in custody
The UN Human Rights Office confirmed Mohammad el Shami’s death in Houthi custody. His family has received no explanation of the cause or circumstances.
The UN Human Rights Office announced on 31 October that its Yemeni employee Mohammad el Shami had died in Houthi custody. High Commissioner Volker Türk called for an urgent, independent and thorough investigation.
According to the release, he had been held since 6 June 2024, in detention the UN describes as arbitrary. Citing information from his family, the Office says he died more than a month ago, but relatives were informed only recently. Today’s date refers to the announcement, not the time of death.
His family has received no explanation of the cause or circumstances. Türk seeks disclosure of medical and detention records, preservation of evidence and independent scrutiny. No investigative finding establishing a cause of death or individual responsibility has been announced.
The High Commissioner renewed his appeal for the immediate and unconditional release of the remaining detained UN personnel, humanitarian workers and civil society workers. Pending release, he calls for humane treatment, medical care and contact with their families.
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