Jeddah- Yemen Army affirmed that a number of al-Qaeda members in Yemen surrendered, in response to Yemeni forces call that those involved in terrorist groups but with clean hands surrender to local authorities.

Yemeni army spokesperson, Brigadier Samir Al Haj told Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper that Yemeni forces in cooperation with the Saudi-led coalition leadership issued a statement addressing those who were deceived and persuaded to join terrorist groups. The military’s call received positive reactions as a number of wanted persons gave in.

“Going back to the right track is still an option,” said Haj, adding that the population of terrorist militants is declining day after day. “We do not support war and we are keen to keep Yemeni people away from harm, but anyone who breaches the law will be battled to protect Yemeni people and territory,” he continued. Forces continue to purge Abyan Governorate of al-Qaeda members and have seized 80% of the region, according to Haj.

Security forces issued a statement that it would grant amnesty to terrorist groups’ members who surrender, following the notable victory in Hadramout province and successive victories in arresting a huge number of top figures in terrorist groups. The statement guaranteed that “members involved in terrorist groups will not be prosecuted when surrendering.”

Furthermore, Yemen’s Interior Minister Major General Hussein Mohammed Arab appointed on Tuesday head of Abyan purge operation Abdullah Naser al-Fadli as head of Abyan police department. This decision was highly welcomed by both, authorities and people.

Major General Arab told Asharq Al-Awsat that the military campaign will continue in order to maintain peace and stability and avert those committing evil, terrorism and murder.