A disturbing scene in Yemen has sparked general outrage after an old street vendor was severely burned by a security officer in what is described as a savage attack. The attack allegedly originated from a slight quarrel over the delay of a food order, escalating into the violent act that has since been shared widely on social media websites.
Witnesses state the officer, frustrated by the delay, splashed a flammable liquid on the vendor and lit him on fire in broad daylight. Shattered bystanders came to the vendor’s rescue and put out the fire, but not before he received serious injuries. He was rushed to an adjacent hospital and is currently in critical condition.
The assault has elicited a huge tide of popular discontent, with residents, human rights defenders, and reporters calling for accountability and justice. Social media is filled with the hashtag #JusticeForYemeniVendor, with citizens condemning the misuse of power and calling for prompt legal action against the implicated officer.
Authorities confirmed that an investigation is ongoing and that the accused officer was being held under further inquiry. Human rights groups have also expressed concern, calling on the government to be transparent and provide justice in order to regain public trust in law enforcement.
