Seized Arms Ship Bound for Somalia Diverts to Djibouti After Puntland Release

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The recently seized Sea World vessel headed to the neighbouring Djibouti against the initial destination of Mogadishu, following a temporary seizure at Puntland, the northern state of Somalia, which suspected its intent given the weapons it was carrying.

The cargo ship was coming from Izmir, Turkey, before it was detained by the Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF), and reports indicate that it was headed to Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia. Somalia had its arms embargo lifted a few months ago.

Further reports indicate that the cargo was meant for military teams training in Somalia, famously known as TURKSOM, the largest overseas training facility in the country, the home to Gorgor troops who are critical in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

But multiple sources have hinted that the vessel made a U-turn, heading towards Djibouti instead of Mogadishu under unclear reasons. Neither Mogadishu nor Ankara have stated with regard to the current situation.

Puntland authorities decided to release the Sea World ship following a visit by the Turkish ambassador to Somalia, who presented evidence confirming that the arms shipment aboard the vessel belongs to the Turkish government, according to a statement from Puntland authorities.

The PMPF seized the general cargo vessel Sea World, sailing under the Comoros flag, which was carrying a consignment of Turkish military equipment destined for the Somali military (SNA). The ship was brought to Bosaso Port.

Somalia and its federal state of Puntland have been at loggerheads over constitutional changes that are being imposed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is accused of mutilating the constitution by seeking term extensions.

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is also accused of failing to implement the security protocols in the fight against Al-Shabaab militants, who have gained ground in recent weeks after overrunning various military installations.

GAROWE ONLINE