Mogadishu – Somali police announced Wednesday the arrest of a presidential adviser to Puntland leader Saeed Deni in Mogadishu, citing security concerns. The action threatens to worsen already heightened tensions between the federal government and the semi-autonomous region.
Police named the detained official as Ahmed Abdi Mohamd Hurre, accusing him of engaging in activities to undermine and destabilize security in the capital at the time of his apprehension. Authorities confirmed an investigation is now in progress.
Puntland authorities dismissed the allegations, characterizing the arrest as a kidnapping. They stated Hurre was staying at a hotel within Mogadishu’s airport compound when security personnel stormed his room and took him into custody.
The regional government additionally claimed that following the detention, security forces mistreated Hurre and subjected federal legislators from Puntland staying at the same hotel (Airport Hotel) to similar abuse.
The northeastern Somali state cautioned that the arrest could further deteriorate ties with the federal government, which have deteriorated significantly in recent days.
The detention occurred shortly after Somalia’s federal administration instructed a flight carrying federal lawmakers from Puntland and other passengers to return mid-flight when it was approximately 15 minutes from reaching Garowe, Puntland’s capital. Regional officials and the legislators characterized that event as an abduction and misuse of authority.
These recent developments highlight increasing friction between Mogadishu and Puntland, sparking concerns about stability in an already vulnerable political environment.
UPDATE:
According to the latest information, Mr. Hurre is released.
