Sana'a: The Specialized Criminal Division in Sana'a initiated the first session of the trial concerning the initial group accused of espionage for a network linked to British intelligence. This group is facing serious allegations of working against the interests of Yemen.
According to Yemen News Agency, the session was led by Judge Abdullah al-Najjar, with Judges Hussein al-Azzi and Muhammad Muflih also present, alongside Public Prosecutor Judge Ali al-Julahi and division secretary Abdul Salam Abbad. The three defendants were presented with the primary court's verdict, which found them guilty and sentenced them to death by firing squad.
The division has allowed the convicts the opportunity to appeal the decision in a forthcoming session. Earlier, on January 7th, the Specialized Criminal Court of First Instance had convicted these individuals, as well as another six-member network, sentencing eight to death and one to 15 years in prison.
The Public Prosecution has accused the defendants of espionage activities spanning from 2021 to 2025. Allegedly, they collaborated with Saudi and British intelligence officers in Cairo and Riyadh to gather intelligence on key figures and sites in Sana'a. The defendants reportedly received training in various espionage techniques, including surveillance, encrypted communications, and the use of specialized equipment.
Their tasks included monitoring individuals' movements, planting tracking devices, infiltrating networks, and submitting detailed reports and coordinates via secure applications. In return, they received financial compensation and gold bullion, all aimed at undermining Yemen's military, political, and economic stability, while attempting to recruit others for foreign intelligence activities.