Garowe, Somalia — Puntland’s police chief has issued a stern warning against individuals carrying weapons without authorization, as tensions simmer amid the region’s increasingly charged political and military atmosphere.
Security officials say the move is aimed at curbing the proliferation of armed groups and restoring public confidence in law enforcement. Over the past several months, Garowe and other major towns in Puntland have seen a rise in the number of armed men linked to political factions and clan militias, heightening fears of instability.
The police command emphasized that only members of the official security forces — including the army, police, and intelligence services — are permitted to bear arms in public. Officers have reportedly begun identifying and disarming those found in violation, as part of a broader campaign to enforce security discipline.
Residents in Garowe described a visible increase in patrols since the announcement, with checkpoints set up on key roads and markets. Authorities hope the tougher stance will deter illegal gun possession and prevent potential clashes that could disrupt daily life.
The warning comes at a time when Puntland’s political climate remains fragile, following months of disputes over governance and regional autonomy. Observers say the initiative may be an attempt to assert control and demonstrate that the region’s institutions remain capable of maintaining order despite political divisions.
Security analysts note that disarming unauthorized groups is not merely a matter of law enforcement but a crucial step toward stabilizing a region that has long prided itself on relative peace and self-governance. For many in Puntland, the renewed focus on lawful weapon control signals a push to preserve that legacy — and to ensure that politics does not once again give way to the gun.