Garowe (KAAB TV) – Puntland President Saeed Abdullahi Deni has officially signed into law a new and controversial Anti-Terrorism Act, marking a significant shift in the semi-autonomous region’s legal framework in its ongoing battle against extremist groups, particularly Daesh (ISIS) militants operating in parts of eastern Puntland.
The law, which had been approved by the Puntland Parliament in late July 2025, was published in the official state gazette immediately after President Deni’s signature, making it enforceable across the region.
According to Puntland authorities, the legislation is designed to strengthen counter-terrorism capabilities and improve the efficiency of ongoing security operations targeting militant cells.
Expanded Powers for Security Agencies
One of the most debated aspects of the new Anti-Terrorism Act is the expanded authority it grants to Puntland’s security agencies.
The law authorizes actions that go beyond the typical legal boundaries defined by the Puntland Constitution, particularly in matters of privacy and due process.
Among its provisions:
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Security forces can enter homes, private properties, or other premises without a court-issued warrant if pursuing individuals suspected of terrorist activities.
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Telephone and digital communications may be monitored or intercepted without prior judicial approval, provided the individuals involved are under terrorism-related suspicion.
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Detention powers have been extended, allowing suspects to be held for longer periods without formal charges, a move critics argue could open the door to abuse and unlawful detention.
Constitutional Concerns and Public Debate
The enactment of the law has triggered significant debate among legal experts, civil society groups, and human rights advocates, who argue that some sections may violate Article 21 of the Puntland Constitution.
This article safeguards citizens against unlawful search, surveillance, and intrusion, permitting such actions only in emergency cases or when police are actively pursuing a suspect involved in an ongoing crime.
Critics warn that the vague language used in defining what constitutes a “terror suspect” could lead to arbitrary enforcement and suppression of political dissent or activism under the pretext of national security.
There are also concerns about insufficient oversight mechanisms to ensure accountability for security personnel operating under the law.
Tougher Sentences and Broader Definitions
The law also introduces stricter penalties for individuals found guilty of terrorism-related offenses. Those convicted of:
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Joining a terrorist group,
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Providing financial, logistical, or material support, or
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Spreading extremist ideology,
may face up to 20 years in prison. In extreme cases involving mass casualties or leadership roles in terrorist operations, the death penalty may be applied.
Those already in custody for terrorism-related charges will now be subject to the new legal provisions, raising further questions about retroactive justice and the rights of detainees.
Context: Ongoing Operations Against Daesh
The legislation comes amid an intensified military and intelligence campaign against Daesh-affiliated militants in eastern Puntland.
Over the past several months, Puntland’s security forces, in coordination with local communities and regional allies, have launched operations to dismantle the group’s hideouts and financial networks.
President Deni has repeatedly emphasized the importance of eradicating extremist ideology from Puntland and has vowed that the final phase of operations will focus not only on active militants but also on individuals and networks that provide logistical or ideological support to these groups.
“We will not allow anyone who aids or supports terrorism to hide behind the law. This legislation is a clear message: Puntland is united against terror in all its forms,” President Deni said during a press briefing following the law’s signing.
While the Puntland government views the Anti-Terrorism Act as a necessary tool to ensure regional stability and security, human rights groups caution that ensuring checks and balances will be critical to prevent misuse.
As Puntland moves forward in its counter-terrorism strategy, the tension between security and civil liberties will likely remain a central issue in the months ahead.