Yemeni government forces have taken control of a key smuggling route in western Aden province, seizing a new weapons shipment bound for the Houthis just days after intercepting two similar consignments.

The movement of migrants along the route has also dropped to its lowest level since the war began.

In a security operation, government forces in Lahj province’s coastal al-Sabiha region stopped a vehicle carrying what they called a “dangerous” shipment of ammunition.

The cargo included 120mm mortar shells and 12.7mm rounds. Smugglers had tried to bypass checkpoints using backroads, with the weapons likely headed for Houthi-controlled areas.

The operation followed careful monitoring, allowing security forces to seize the vehicle and its cargo without resistance. The joint security campaign continues to intercept arms and goods smuggling, recently stopping two weapons shipments to the Houthis and dismantling smuggling networks.

A statement from the security campaign said efforts to maintain stability would continue, with no tolerance for smugglers. It called the operation further proof that security forces are tightening control over key smuggling routes, weakening their operations.

The region, once a major smuggling hub, will no longer be a safe haven, it added.

Security forces also pledged to intensify efforts against all forms of smuggling, including pharmaceuticals and goods, as part of a plan to cut off smuggling routes and secure land and sea entry points.

The campaign said it would show no leniency toward smugglers, with patrols continuing alongside the use of modern technology to detect suspicious activity. It called for additional boats and advanced equipment to improve its ability to track smugglers at sea.

Authorities urged residents in al-Sabiha districts to cooperate with security forces and report any suspicious movements, stressing that maintaining stability is a shared responsibility.

They emphasized that protecting the region requires joint efforts between officials and the community to combat threats to public health and the economy.