HornCurrent.com | July 24, 2025
Garowe, Puntland – The Puntland State Government has firmly rejected accusations of piracy made by the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), following the July 18 seizure of the cargo vessel MV Sea World off the Bareda coast in Ras Asay.
In a press release issued today, Puntland confirmed that its maritime forces—acting on intelligence—intercepted the ship after it loitered suspiciously near Puntland’s coast for two days. The Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) successfully secured the vessel and its cargo, which, according to Puntland authorities, consists entirely of military equipment.
Initial reports indicate that a group of local fishermen had already boarded the vessel prior to the PMPF’s arrival. Puntland forces assumed full control of the ship and moved it to Bosaso Port for further inspection.
Shortly after the seizure, both Somali traders based in Mogadishu and the Turkish Ambassador to Somalia contacted the Puntland Government, asserting ownership of the cargo—raising questions about its origin and purpose. Puntland noted that, despite the gravity of the situation, the FGS failed to reach out or clarify ownership between July 18 and July 23, before issuing its public accusation.
“The cargo aboard MV Sea World contains no commercial goods. It is entirely military in nature,” Puntland officials declared, adding that unauthorized possession of such weapons poses a threat to Somalia’s stability.
Puntland emphasized that it welcomes cooperation from both the Federal Government of Somalia and the Turkish Government in verifying the cargo’s ownership and ensuring national security.
Brief Info Statements for Press & Social Media:
- Puntland denies piracy allegations from the FGS, confirms MV Sea World seizure was a security operation.
- The cargo on the ship is exclusively military equipment, not commercial goods, Puntland says.
- The vessel loitered suspiciously for two days near Ras Asay before being intercepted by Puntland forces.
- Puntland: No official communication was received from the FGS between July 18–23 regarding the ship.
- Both Turkish officials and Mogadishu-based Somali traders claimed ownership of the cargo.
- Puntland is conducting an ongoing investigation to prevent misuse of military equipment within Somalia.
- Puntland calls for joint review with the Federal Government of Somalia and Turkey.
