In a significant development, the Puntland has announced the seizure of a foreign vessel, Sea World, which was found sailing illegally off the coast of Bareeda, Puntland, for two days.
The Ministry of Information, Communication, Tourism, Heritage, and Culture revealed that the vessel, carrying visible weaponry, violated international maritime laws, posing a serious security threat to the region.
According to a press release, the Sea World failed to notify or seek permission from Puntland authorities, breaching the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), specifically Articles 19(2)(b) and (g).
The vessel’s presence in a conflict zone, where Puntland forces have been combating international terrorist groups like ISIS, has heightened concerns about regional stability. The Puntland Government is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the vessel’s true purpose, ownership, and cargo.
“This vessel’s covert operations in our waters, especially in a sensitive area, represent a clear violation of international protocols and a direct threat to our security,” the Ministry stated.
Puntland authorities have vowed to hold accountable any parties involved, in line with UNCLOS provisions (Articles 25(1) and 27(1)) that grant the state authority to inspect and act against vessels in its territorial waters.
The Ministry emphasized Puntland’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime boundaries and ensuring regional security. “We are resolute in defending our waters and protecting our people from external threats,” the statement concluded.
The international community is closely watching the situation, as Puntland’s response could set a precedent for addressing maritime security challenges in the Horn of Africa.