Deni accuses Hassan Sheikh of creating piracy that has erupted in Puntland

The President of Puntland, Said Abdullahi Deni, has accused the Federal Government of Somalia led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the resurgence of piracy in the waters of Somalia, particularly in Puntland.

President Deni, speaking today at the opening of the 58th session of the Puntland Parliament, stated that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is behind the piracy that has erupted off the coast of Puntland, an issue he indicated is aimed at undermining the security of the country.

He also mentioned that Puntland is closely monitoring that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is funding armed militia youth being created in areas of the districts of Hafun, Bandarbayla, Eyl, and Jariiban, some of whom he noted are being prepared to assist and participate in piracy operations.

The waters off Puntland, particularly in Bari, Karkaar, and Mudug, are being targeted by pirate groups holding up to three commercial vessels, which have demanded ransom payments.

PUNTLAND POST