By Horn Africa News
Mogadishu – The Federal Government of Somalia has strongly condemned the seizure of the cargo ship SEA WORLD by Puntland’s PMPF forces, labeling the act as “piracy and a violation of national sovereignty.”
According to federal authorities, the vessel was legally en route to Mogadishu Port carrying military equipment destined for the TÜRKSOM military training base, which operates under Turkish cooperation. The Somali government accused Puntland regional forces of hijacking the ship in what it described as an illegal and aggressive act.
In a rare and explicit statement, the Somali government cited Article 54 of the Provisional Constitution, emphasizing that national security — both on land and at sea — is exclusively under federal jurisdiction. The government is now deliberating possible responses if Puntland refuses to release the ship or attempts to confiscate the military cargo onboard, which is reportedly heavy weaponry.
Puntland, led by President Said Abdullahi Deni, has yet to issue a formal decision regarding the ship but stated that an investigation is ongoing.
Possible Federal Responses
Analysts suggest several actions the Federal Government might take:
1. Maritime Sanctions: The government could impose a blockade on Puntland’s coastline, classifying it as a high-risk piracy zone.
2. Legal Redefinition of PMPF: The PMPF, which reportedly receives training and support from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), may be designated an illegitimate armed group or even a piracy force.
3. Military Action: One of the more drastic options under consideration could involve a federal military operation to reclaim the SEA WORLD ship, currently held at the port of Bosaso. However, such a move would carry heavy political and military consequences.
International Ramifications
The standoff is likely to affect the diplomatic dynamics between Turkey and the UAE — two nations with competing interests in Somalia. Turkey remains a staunch supporter of the Federal Government, while the UAE maintains close ties with Puntland’s leadership. Pro-Federal Government activists and Turkish commentators have increasingly taken to social media, urging Ankara to intervene militarily against Puntland-held facilities.
Ongoing Mediation
Despite rising tensions, there is hope for a peaceful resolution. The United Nations and other international actors are reportedly engaging both parties in behind-the-scenes negotiations aimed at securing the release of the ship without escalation.
Broader Context
This incident highlights the deepening political rift between Somalia’s Federal Government and the semi-autonomous regions of Puntland and Jubbaland. What began as political disputes has now extended into maritime security, threatening national stability and foreign partnerships in the Horn of Africa.
