UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council (STC) forces deployed in large numbers at the entrances and exits of Al-Mualla district in the center of Aden, according to local residents. 

The residents, who witnessed the military buildup, told Almasdar Online that armored vehicles belonging to the 1st Infantry Brigade were stationed at the entrances to Al-Mualla district along roads leading to neighboring Khormaksar, Al-Tawahi and Crater districts. The brigade, which is loyal to STC President Aidarous Al-Zubaidi, is stationed at Jabal Hadid military camp, located on the border of Al-Mualla and Khormaskar. 

Troops from the brigade blocked traffic and carried out inspections of taxis, the residents said, adding that even some other pro-STC troops driving military vehicles were prevented from entering Al-Mualla.