Puntland Releases Turkish Weapons Ship After Negotiations

Officials from Somalia’s semi-autonomous Puntland region released a ship carrying advanced weaponry, meant to be delivered at a Turkish military base in Mogadishu, after weeks of diplomatic talks to resolve the issue.

A turkish delegation, which was headed by the country’s ambassador to Somalia, Alper Akta, met with Puntland President Abdullahi Deni in Bosaso, over the detention of the Turkish-flagged cargo vessel MV Sea World.

The Turkish-flagged ship MV Sea World was confiscated by Puntland maritime security in late July, off the northeastern coast of Somalia.

It was found to be loaded with military supplies, including modern armoured vehicles and light weapons.

The ship left from Izmir, Turkey and was bound for Mogadishu.

Authorities in Puntland began an investigation, leading to confusion over the cargo’s destination and ownership.

According to reports, businessmen and the Turkish ambassador both had claimed ties to the cargo, leading to doubts about its purpose and raising concerns over a possible breach of Somalia’s arms embargo.

Officials in Puntland pointed to the nature of weapons delivery, saying that such incidents are investigated as they could be a means for local factions to arm themselves in the capital.

President Deni carried out all negotiations and made the decisions regarding the incident after he positioned himself as the authority to manage the sensitive affair.

Puntland Government said in a statement that on the basis of the evidence given by the Turkish Government and their own investigation, Puntland decided to transfer the responsibility for MV Sea World and its cargo to Turkey.

The incident has heightened tensions between Puntland, Mogadishu and Turkey.

Source: Maritime Shipping News