Yemeni Lawmaker Sues Former U.S. Operators Over Alleged Assassination Attempt
Yemeni lawmaker Anssaf Ali Mayo has initiated a lawsuit in a U.S. federal court, alleging that former American special forces operators, acting as mercenaries hired by the United Arab Emirates (UAE), attempted to assassinate him. The lawsuit, filed in California under the Alien Tort Statute, allows foreign nationals to bring claims in U.S. federal court for violations of international law.
The lawsuit claims the UAE engaged Spear Operations Group to conduct a series of assassinations targeting its perceived political adversaries in Yemen.
Accusations Against Private Military Company
The case names Abraham Golan, Isaac Gilmore, and Dale Comstock, who were executives or employees of Spear Operations Group, a U.S.-based private military company. They face serious accusations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, and attempted extrajudicial killing.
The lawsuit asserts that the UAE engaged Spear Operations Group with a monthly payment of $1.5 million and additional bonuses for successful operations. Many individuals employed by Spear were reportedly former U.S. Special Forces, Navy SEALs, and Green Berets.
The Alleged Assassination Attempt
The alleged assassination attempt on Mayo occurred on December 29, 2015. According to the complaint, the Spear Assassination Team tracked Mayo to his political party's headquarters and attempted to kill him by detonating a powerful explosive device at the building's front door.
Mayo recounted leaving his office shortly before hearing two explosions. He initially attributed these to general conflict during Yemen's civil war but later learned he was the intended target. Following the incident, he subsequently left Yemen for Saudi Arabia.
Evidence and Confirmations Emerge
In 2018, reports from BuzzFeed News indicated the involvement of former American service members operating as mercenaries in the attempt on Mayo's life. This included drone footage of the alleged operation and statements from Spear's founder, Golan, who confirmed running a UAE-sanctioned targeted assassination program in Yemen.
More recently, in 2024, Gilmore and Comstock discussed targeted killings in Yemen during a BBC documentary. Gilmore notably stated that the UAE provided Spear with target information, including a card specifically for Mayo.
Plaintiff Seeks Justice from Exile
Mayo, who has lived in exile in Saudi Arabia since the incident, stated that the event has caused him profound fear, anxiety, and psychological, social, and professional disruption. This has also led to his separation from his family and constituents.
Mayo seeks justice and compensation through the lawsuit, hoping it will deter similar actions in the future.