Amnesty International has called on the Yemeni authorities to “clarify the whereabouts” of journalist Muhammad al-Maqalih, who was seized by plain-clothed men last Thursday.

“Amnesty International suspects his apparent disappearance is the result of his strong opposition and criticism of the government, in particular over the armed clashes raging in Saada and the killings of civilians by government forces,” a statement said. He should be released “without delay if he is being held solely for his criticism of the government, which would make him a prisoner of conscience”.

Posted by Brian Whitaker, 22 September 2009.