Somalia: Puntland Arrests 53 Al Shabaab and Piracy Suspects

Ministry of Security and DDR

Puntland State of Somalia

Garowe

PRESS RELEASE

31 July 2012

Government security forces in Puntland State of Somalia have arrested 53 persons suspected of links to Al Shabaab terrorist group and piracy criminal gangs, as part of an extensive security campaign.

Puntland government forces on security operations in Galkayo arrested 46 suspects on terrorism links, including 6 individuals identified to be members of Al Shabaab terrorist group.

The Galkayo operation was conducted following the targeted killing on 30 July 2012 of a prominent elder who served in the past as a security official in Somalia’s last central government. The victim and his brother were killed in a mosque after evening prayer.

Additionally, 4 piracy suspects have been arrested in Galkayo, including a man suspected of being a piracy financier. Government forces have intensified security operations since the 11 July 2012 kidnapping of three Kenyan aid workers near Galkayo.

Another 3 piracy suspects have also been arrested at police checkpoints in Nugal and Bari Regions, including a suspect believed to be an associate of pirate fugitive Mr. Isse Yuluh.b Puntland police are conducting thorough investigations regarding these cases.

Puntland Government is fighting unwaveringly against terrorists, pirates and other criminals intending to destabilize Puntland State, and Puntland Government expresses its appreciation to local communities for cooperating and supporting government security forces.

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