MOGADISHU: The Somali state of Puntland on Monday said it was “handing over responsibility” to Turkiye for a cargo ship carrying military equipment that it seized last month, provoking the federal government.
The oil-rich area declared its autonomy in 1998, and the region has had tense relations with the central government in Mogadishu.
Puntland forces intercepted the Comoros-flagged vessel, saying it had been observed “loitering” near the coast and could pose a security risk.
Mogadishu protested the move, calling it “an act of piracy,” and said the ship was carrying equipment for a Turkish military base in the country as well as goods for Somali traders.
In a statement on Monday Puntland government said a Turkish delegation led by its ambassador to Somalia held a meeting in the region and provided “proof that all the property belongs to the Turkish government.”
