(20 Sep 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) – A large shipment of weapons, reportedly purchased by the Puntland administration from Ethiopia, has successfully reached its destination amidst a foiled robbery attempt. The incident, reminiscent of a similar occurrence in Abudwak, Galmudug, in July, raises alarms about escalating cross-border arms flows and instability in the region.
Armed militiamen attempted to seize the weapons convoy in the Bookh district near the Somali-Ethiopia border, resulting in a heavy exchange of gunfire. However, swift intervention by local Ethiopian forces thwarted the robbery, ensuring the weapons’ safe delivery to Puntland authorities this morning.
This incident comes at a time of heightened tension between Somalia and Ethiopia, fuelled by a controversial maritime agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland. The increased flow of weapons across the border, coupled with recent lootings like the July incident in Abudwak where two lorries carrying thousands of firearms were seized by civilians, further aggravates the already precarious security situation.
Concerns are mounting about the implications of these developments for regional stability. The Somali government has issued a strong condemnation of the unauthorized arms shipment, calling it a “grave infringement on Somalia’s sovereignty.”
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Federal Republic of Somalia strongly condemns the unauthorized shipment of arms and ammunition transported via Ethiopian territory to Somalia’s Puntland region. This action constitutes a grave infringement on Somalia’s sovereignty and poses serious national and regional security implications.”
“Documented evidence confirms the arrival of two lorries transporting weapons from Ethiopia to Puntland, executed without any diplomatic engagement or clearance, signalling a clear breach of Somalia’s territorial sovereignty. The Somali government expresses deep concern about Ethiopia’s adherence to international law and dedication to regional stability.”
Despite the gravity of the situation, the Puntland administration has remained silent on the matter. The lack of response from both Puntland and the Ethiopian government leaves many questions unanswered and further fuels concerns about the transparency and intentions behind this arms deal.
Halqabsi News
