Abyan – A Yemeni civilian was killed and six others including four soldiers were injured on Monday during an armed confrontation between local gunmen and security forces in the city of Ja'ar, located in Yemen’s southern Abyan governorate.

According to local sources, the clash erupted in the vegetable and fish market after a group of armed men attempted to impose illegal levies on vendors. Security forces intervened to stop the extortion, prompting a violent exchange of gunfire that left one civilian dead and several others wounded.

Eyewitnesses reported scenes of panic as shoppers and traders fled the area amid the gunfire. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, where some remain in critical condition.

Authorities have not yet released an official statement, but local officials confirmed that an investigation is underway and that efforts are being made to track down the perpetrators.

The incident highlights ongoing security challenges in parts of southern Yemen, where armed groups continue to exploit instability and target local markets and infrastructure.