The commercial sector in the capital, Sana'a, which is under control of the Houthi rebels, is heading for further deterioration in light of the repressive militia practices that continue to close shops and Imposing illegal levies.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that the streets of the capital, Sanaa, are witnessing a real crisis that reflects the deteriorating economic situation, as a large number of closed shops can be seen along the main streets, at a time when their owners face unprecedented challenges as a result of the repressive practices pursued by the Houthi militia.
According to eyewitnesses, about 40% of the city’s shops are closed, and those that are still open suffer from a lack of customers. Many of these stores carry signs “Closed by the Public Works, Industry and Commerce Offices, and Prosecution Office, etc..” In reference to the arbitrary decisions issued by the militia, which is not only imposing the closure of shops, but also extending its thuggish practices and financial extortion. It forces merchants to pay illegal levies on an ongoing basis, which increases their suffering and deepens the economic crisis.