Saturday July 19, 2025
Bosaso (HOL) — Authorities in Somalia’s semi-autonomous
Puntland region have intercepted a cargo ship allegedly transporting a large
consignment of weapons and military vehicles, reportedly en route to Mogadishu.
The ship, described as being of foreign origin, was seized
near the coastal area of Bareeda in the Gardafuu region. Local officials said
the vessel is now under tight surveillance by the Puntland Maritime Police
Force (PMPF) as investigations continue.
Security sources indicated the cargo includes heavy
weaponry, armored vehicles, advanced firearms, and various types of ammunition
and military equipment. While some reports suggest the ship was headed to the
Somali capital, it remains unclear whether the cargo was intended for the
Federal Government of Somalia. No official confirmation has been provided.
The Somali federal government recently signed a defense
agreement with Turkey, enabling Turkish forces to help patrol and protect
Somalia’s coastline. The Turkish parliament also approved the deployment of
troops and military assets to support maritime defense.
However, officials have not linked the intercepted shipment
to the Turkish-Somali defense deal, and no evidence has surfaced connecting the
cargo to that agreement.
As of Friday, the Federal Government of Somalia had not
issued a statement regarding the incident.