Marib – At least five people, the majority of them children, were killed or injured in a series of tragic firearm mishandling incidents in Marib province, according to local police and Interior Ministry reports.

The incidents, which occurred over the past 48 hours, highlight the growing dangers posed by unsecured weapons in civilian homes amid Yemen’s ongoing conflict and widespread arms proliferation.

In one case, a 7-year-old boy died instantly after sustaining a gunshot wound to the head while playing with an automatic rifle inside his family’s residence. The weapon, reportedly left loaded and unattended, discharged during the child’s handling.

In a separate incident, a 15-year-old girl was seriously injured by a gunshot to her elbow while attempting to operate a firearm she found in her uncle’s home. She was rushed to Marib General Hospital and remains in stable condition following surgery.

Three other minors sustained varying degrees of injuries in similar accidents involving pistols and explosive remnants. All cases have been linked to parental negligence and the unsafe storage of weapons, according to security officials.

“These tragedies are preventable,” said a spokesperson from the Ministry of Interior. “We urge families to take immediate steps to secure firearms and educate children about the dangers of handling weapons. The cost of carelessness is far too high.”

Human rights advocates and child protection organizations have long warned of the risks posed by Yemen’s widespread weaponization, especially in conflict-affected regions like Marib, where firearms are often kept in homes for protection.

Authorities have launched an awareness campaign targeting local communities, emphasizing safe storage practices and the importance of reporting unsecured weapons. Investigations into the incidents are ongoing, and legal action may be taken against guardians found in violation of safety regulations.