GAROWE (Kaab TV) — The Puntland State of Somalia has accused a foreign vessel, SEA WORLD, of violating international maritime law and transporting illicit weapons off the coast of Bareeda, prompting a high-level security investigation.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Information, Puntland authorities confirmed that the vessel, flagged by Comoros and allegedly chartered by a Turkish entity, was unlawfully present in Puntland’s territorial waters for two consecutive days without notifying local authorities or requesting assistance, as required under international maritime agreements, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982).
Security forces reportedly seized the vessel last week after discovering it was carrying military equipment and weapons.
Puntland officials allege that the arms were being smuggled into Mogadishu and could have been destined for clan militias or terrorist groups operating in southern Somalia.
“The SEA WORLD vessel violated international laws that prohibit foreign ships from unlawfully entering the territorial waters of another state, especially when transporting visible weaponry that poses a potential security threat,” the ministry said.
Authorities cited Articles 19(2)(b) and 19(2)(g) of UNCLOS, noting the vessel’s unauthorized entry into a conflict-sensitive area where Puntland security forces are actively engaged in operations against international terrorist groups, including ISIS.
Officials described the ship’s presence as a “serious threat” to regional peace and stability.
International maritime protocols require that foreign vessels—particularly those with a military or suspicious profile—formally notify coastal states before entry.
The right to inspect, verify, and take necessary actions
However, Puntland said no such communication was received from SEA WORLD.
“The Puntland Government reserves the right to inspect, verify, and take necessary actions against any vessel in its waters,” the statement added, citing Articles 25(1) and 27(1) of UNCLOS.
Authorities said a formal investigation is underway to determine the vessel’s true ownership, cargo manifest, and mission. Until the investigation is complete, Puntland maintains that the vessel has violated both international maritime laws and Puntland’s sovereignty.
“This vessel poses a significant threat to Puntland’s security and stability. It operated covertly in a coastal area that has recently seen military operations against the terrorist group ISIS,” the statement said.
Puntland concluded that it will hold accountable all individuals or entities found responsible for the violation in accordance with international law and reaffirmed its commitment to defending its territorial waters and national security.