Puntland has accused Somalia’s Federal Government (FGS) of orchestrating a plan to smuggle weapons into the semi-autonomous region and incite inter-clan conflict, prompting authorities to ban federal-linked security personnel and officials from entering or operating in Puntland, Garowe news reported citing a statement by the region’s Ministry of Security.
The accusation was made in a statement issued on 24 June, in which Puntland authorities alleged the existence of a “major coordinated plan” involving the federal government and four foreign countries aimed at arming local proxies, including politicians and former officials, to trigger clan-based violence and destabilize the region, Garowe Online reported.
According to the statement, Puntland believes the alleged operation is intended to undermine the regional administration led by President Said Abdullahi Deni and weaken Puntland’s political position amid ongoing disputes with Mogadishu over power-sharing, constitutional arrangements, and resource management.
In response, Puntland announced a ban on non-local security forces and officials appointed by the federal government from entering or conducting activities within its territory. The move effectively blocks federal-linked security operations and follows months of escalating tensions between Puntland and the federal administration.
The regional government further claimed that the alleged efforts mirror what it described as previous attempts by Mogadishu to influence political dynamics in other federal member states. Puntland has previously accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration of supporting allied militias within the region, allegations the federal government has denied.
The latest measures come amid deteriorating relations between Puntland and the federal government following disagreements over constitutional reforms and the federal administration’s mandate, which Puntland argues expired in May 2026. It has subsequently withdrawn recognition of Somalia’s president.
The Federal Government of Somalia had not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of reporting.
Source: AS
IDILNEWS