Al Mukalla: In response to several deadly shootings that have claimed lives, security forces in Aden, Yemen's temporary capital, have started a campaign against the sale and possession of firearms.
To enforce the ban on civilians, military personnel, and security personnel carrying unlicensed firearms, dozens of armed security personnel and vehicles have been stationed at the city's entrances, intersections, and roads.
While a media campaign to inform the public about the significance of not carrying weapons has been launched on social media and local television, forces have been seen checking vehicles for weapons.
Also Read: Toto Wolff Leading the Formula 1 From Former Times
One of the security forces' Facebook posters claims that carrying a gun "terrifies citizens and encourages the growth of crime."
Another declares: "Together, we'll put an end to party shooting and weapon carrying. Without the proliferation of weapons, Aden is more alluring.
Even security and military personnel with a permit to carry a gun won't be allowed to carry one on the streets, according to local officials.
After a week of shootings in the city, the campaign began.
A gunman once opened fire on another man's car, killing his toddler and injuring another.
Also Read: Putin assures Russia's Asian allies of its stability following mutiny
In the city, when security personnel arrived to arrest a suspect, the suspect opened fire on them, killing one soldier and injuring another.
The campaign has received support from the general public, who also call for the city to regain its peace and safety.
On a street in Aden, a group of people gathered with campaign posters and pictures of the kid who was shot and killed.
One of the signs said, "Your weapon should only be used on the front lines, not on the streets and highways."
On social media, Aden residents emphasised their support for the arms embargo.
"We must all stand with the security forces and military forces in the campaign to prevent the carrying of arms in Aden," said Najib Alkaldi, an activist based in the city.
"Let us all be aware that unless we all support the security forces, they will not be able to accomplish the objectives of this campaign or continue it."
It has been reported that security offices in Aden charge $14.50 for an arms licence.
Also Read: From Power to Pounds Shed: Saakashvili's Dramatic Weight Loss Behind Bars
The campaign, according to its detractors, was hastily organised in response to the public's outrage over the killing of the child and will probably come to an end once it does.
For any campaign to be successful, security units and armed groups must be rebuilt and placed under the command of a single security authority, according to Fatehi bin Lazerq, editor of the Aden Al-Ghad newspaper, who spoke to Arab News.
"All security operations in Aden to restore security in the city and remove weapons are a response to the violent events that rocked society," continued Bin Lazerq. "As a result, they are limited, and their impact is temporary, lasting only a few days."