Friday October 10, 2025
Garowe (HOL) — The Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) has
seized several foreign fishing vessels accused of illegally operating off the
coast of Puntland, authorities said on Thursday.
The week-long operation was conducted in a coordinated
effort across multiple coastal areas. According to a press release from the
Puntland Ministry of Finance, three of the seized boats were owned by Yemeni
nationals, while a fourth belonged to Iranian citizens. Three additional
support boats used for illegal fishing activities were also confiscated.
Two Yemeni-owned boats have already been brought before the
Baargaal District Court, which imposed fines and other legal penalties under
Puntland’s anti-illegal fishing laws.
Meanwhile, one Yemeni and three Iranian boats, carrying 45
foreign crew members, were transferred to Bosaso, where they will face judicial
proceedings.
The Ministry of Finance and the Puntland Tax Enforcement
Force issued a stern warning to both Somali and foreign individuals engaged in
illegal fishing, vowing to take strong legal action.
Puntland authorities also cautioned that anyone who resists
law enforcement or uses armed militias to obstruct maritime operations will be
prosecuted under Puntland’s judicial and security laws.
Illegal fishing remains a serious threat to Somalia’s marine
resources, depriving local fishermen and coastal communities of livelihoods and
revenue.