GAROWE (SD)– The Puntland government has declared that it will not permit the presence or movement of troops associated with the Federal Government of Somalia through Puntland territory, reaffirming its control over security matters within its jurisdiction.

The decision was announced following a cabinet meeting chaired by Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni and attended by Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor.

According to a statement issued after the meeting, Puntland asserted that it is not party to any arrangements involving Somali Federal forces that may have been discussed under the framework of the Federal Government of Somalia. The administration stated that it would not allow troops operating under federal command to remain in or transit through Puntland territory without its authorization.

The cabinet directed Puntland’s security institutions and regional authorities to prevent any unauthorized movement of military personnel or military equipment into Puntland-controlled areas.

Officials said the measure is intended to safeguard security, stability, and administrative authority within Puntland and the Region.

The government also reiterated its commitment to maintaining internal security and called on residents and public institutions to cooperate with security agencies in preserving peace and stability across Puntland.

The announcement comes amid heightened political and security tensions involving the Federal Government, and Somaliland, particularly over issues related to alleged sovereignty issues and related to possible military deployments to Somaliland, and the broader political future of disputed territories in Sool.

Puntland’s statement reflects its continued insistence on controlling all security and military activity within areas under its administration.

By publicly rejecting the movement of troops it associates with attack on Somaliland or unauthorized federal deployments, Puntland is signaling that any military activity in its territory requires its approval.

The announcement also highlights ongoing tensions between Puntland and the Federal Government over questions of authority, security coordination, and federal-state relations. Security matters have become increasingly sensitive as political disagreements continue over constitutional issues, governance, and territorial disputes.

The reference to Somaliland is particularly significant given the longstanding dispute over regions such as Las Anod and surrounding areas, where competing territorial claims and security concerns have periodically fueled tensions.

If reports of potential troop movements continue to circulate, Puntland’s position suggests that it intends to act independently to prevent any deployment it considers contrary to its interests or security arrangements.

Overall, the statement underscores Puntland’s determination to maintain control over security affairs within its territory while reflecting the broader political and territorial disputes that continue to shape relations between Puntland, Somaliland, and the Federal Government.