By Zakariye Hassann - Reporter
Garowe, 23 August 2026 — Puntland has warned of a growing piracy threat along its coastline, saying it has increased maritime security operations amid intelligence suggesting attempts to revive criminal networks previously linked to piracy.
In a statement Saturday, the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources said preliminary information indicates external actors may be attempting to recruit or financially support individuals and networks once associated with piracy.
The ministry said the efforts appear aimed at undermining Puntland’s security, damaging its international reputation and diverting attention from ongoing counterterrorism operations.
Security and maritime law enforcement agencies have launched investigations and pledged legal action against anyone involved in piracy or maritime insecurity, it said.
Puntland reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating piracy, saying coordinated operations are underway to dismantle financial and logistical networks that enable maritime crime.
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The government urged shipowners, shipping companies and insurers not to negotiate directly with pirate groups or pay ransoms, warning that payments strengthen criminal organizations and encourage new networks.
Instead, it called on affected vessels and international partners to coordinate through official law enforcement channels.
The warning comes amid renewed concern over security in the Gulf of Aden and western Indian Ocean, where recent hijackings have prompted alerts from maritime security agencies.
Analysts say pirate groups may be attempting to exploit regional instability and reduced naval presence, though the scale of the threat remains far below the peak of the piracy crisis more than a decade ago.