Somalia: Puntland reveals reasons behind confiscation of the Sea World vessel

BOSASO, Somalia - Puntland authorities confiscated the Sea World vessel after navigating off Bareeda for two days without official notification, Puntland said, noting that the actions violated international maritime law under UNCLOS Articles 19(2)(b)(g).

The ship, Puntland said in a statement, entered a conflict zone where ISIS operations are ongoing, posing a direct threat to regional security and stability. The Puntland administration is pursuing ISIS militants within the Cal-Miskaad mountains.

Under UNCLOS Articles 25(1) and 27(1), Puntland has the legal right to inspect and investigate any foreign vessel operating unlawfully in its territorial waters, especially one suspected of carrying arms. The vessel was carrying APCs and other arms, authorities revealed.

With the formal investigations now going on, the authorities have narrowed it down to the ship’s ownership, intent, and cargo. Any party found complicit in this breach will be held accountable under international law, Puntland said.

"Puntland remains committed to defending its maritime borders, national security, and upholding global maritime agreements," read the statement.

There are already allegations of looting of the weapons in the vessel, even after it was escorted to Bosaso, the commercial capital of Puntland. The ship was implanted with a flag belonging to Comoros, but there are links to Turkey, which haven't been ruled out.

Conflicting reports have emerged regarding the ownership of the weapons and vehicles aboard the ship. The Federal Government of Somalia has remained silent on this issue, even with claims that the cargo could have emanated from Turkey and was meant for Gorgor troops.

However, Somali officials have expressed doubts that the weapons were intended by Turkey for delivery to Mogadishu, noting that Turkey typically does not transport arms via commercial vessels but instead uses military ships manned by its naval forces.

Members of the Somali parliament have claimed that the weapons belong to businessmen closely allied with Villa Somalia and were imported under the guise of government cargo, but these only remain allegations as authorities in Puntland investigate the matter.

GAROWE ONLINE