Lahj  - Violent clashes broke out in the town of Al-Habilayn, located in Yemen’s southern Lahj Governorate, between two rival groups involved in the smuggling of African migrants. 

The confrontation, which occurred on October 11, 2025, has raised fresh concerns about the growing influence of human trafficking networks operating along Yemen’s southern corridor.

Local sources reported that the fighting erupted after a dispute over control of a key smuggling route used to transport migrants from the Horn of Africa into Yemen. Both groups are believed to be part of larger trafficking operations that exploit Yemen’s porous coastline and unstable security environment to move migrants inland.

Eyewitnesses described intense gunfire and armed confrontations in residential areas of Al-Habilayn, forcing civilians to flee and prompting local security forces to intervene. No official casualty figures have been released, but preliminary reports suggest that several individuals were injured, and at least three suspected smugglers were detained.

Security officials in Lahj have launched an investigation into the incident and vowed to crack down on smuggling networks operating in the region. The incident underscores the growing risks faced by migrants, many of whom are subjected to abuse, extortion, and violence during their journey.

Al-Habilayn, situated near key transit routes linking the coast to northern governorates, has become a flashpoint for smuggling activity. The town’s strategic location makes it a frequent battleground for rival traffickers seeking dominance over lucrative human trafficking corridors.

Authorities have called for greater regional cooperation to combat the flow of illegal migration and dismantle trafficking networks that endanger both migrants and local communities.