In a Press Release statement issued by the Federal Government of Somalia on July 23 July, 2025, The Federal Government of Somalia categorically denounces the hijacking and aggression against the SEA WORLD vessel. The ship was on route to Mogadishu Port, transporting military equipment destined for the TÜRKSOM Military Training Centre. In accordance with the bilateral defense cooperation agreements between the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Republic of Türkiye, the cargo was legally authorized and fully compliant with both national and international laws. In addition to the military cargo, the vessel was also carrying commercial goods owned by Somali traders.
Article 54 of the Provisional Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia exclusively mandates the Federal Government with the responsibility for national defense, both on land and at sea. The hijacking of this vessel, carried out by individuals affiliated with the Puntland State, is a direct violation of the Provisional Constitution and undermines the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of the nation.
Under international law, particularly the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) of 1982, any unlawful seizure of a commercial vessel or one with legitimate authorization from a government constitutes an act of piracy and is a criminal offense under the Somali Penal Code.
The Federal Government of Somalia:
1. Demands the immediate and unconditional release of the vessel, given that it carries legally authorized cargo intended for defense purposes critical to the security and stability of the country, including Puntland.
2. Warns Puntland against continued unlawful operations along its coastal areas and calls for cooperation with the Federal Government to ensure secure maritime passage for vessels operating under the authority of the Somali Government.
3. Reaffirms its commitment to combating piracy and prosecuting individuals and groups involved in acts of piracy, in accordance with both national and international criminal laws.
As the custodian of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Federal Government will not accept any action that endangers the sovereignty of the nation or the security of its waters. The unlawful seizure of the SEA WORLD vessel compels the Federal Government to take lawful security measures against maritime zones and coastal landing sites that serve as hubs for acts of piracy, in violation of both national and international laws. These measures are intended to ensure the safety of vessels lawfully navigating Somali waters.
Finally, the Federal Government of Somalia calls upon all Federal Member States, including Puntland, to respect the constitutional mandates of the Federal Government regarding defense and maritime management. Any unauthorized interference threatens both national and regional security.
