GAROWE, Somalia — Puntland security forces have arrested several suspected pirates in a sweeping security operation in Bari region, as authorities move to contain what they describe as a worrying resurgence of piracy along Somalia’s northeastern coastline.
The arrests, carried out on Sunday in parts of Bari and Karkaar regions, targeted individuals believed to be linked to networks accused of organising attacks, kidnappings and attempted hijackings of commercial vessels navigating Somali waters and key Red Sea shipping routes.
Security officials said the operation forms part of a broader campaign to stop pirate groups from rebuilding safe havens in coastal areas once notorious for maritime crime.
“We will take strict action against anyone involved in supporting acts of piracy,” Puntland police commanders said, warning that those found sheltering or financing pirate groups would also face prosecution.
Authorities confirmed the suspects would be brought before court as investigations widen to include individuals accused of providing logistical or financial support to piracy networks.
The renewed security push comes amid growing concern in Puntland over the potential economic fallout of fresh piracy incidents, particularly at a time when regional ports are seeking to expand trade and attract investment.
Officials fear continued attacks on commercial vessels could undermine shipping activity across the Gulf of Aden and damage Puntland’s strategic ports, including Bosaso, which serves as a critical trade gateway for Somalia’s northeast.
For years, Somalia’s coastline was regarded as one of the world’s most dangerous maritime zones, with heavily armed pirate groups hijacking cargo ships and demanding millions of dollars in ransom. At the height of the crisis between 2008 and 2012, international shipping companies were forced to reroute vessels, while foreign naval forces launched large-scale patrols in the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden.
Piracy later declined sharply following coordinated international naval operations, improved maritime surveillance and the deployment of armed guards aboard commercial ships.
But recent instability in Red Sea shipping lanes, coupled with security gaps along parts of Somalia’s coast, has reignited fears that dormant pirate networks may be attempting a comeback.
Puntland authorities say they are determined to prevent that scenario from unfolding again.
Security officials said anti-piracy operations would continue both onshore and offshore in an effort to dismantle networks accused of trying to revive one of Somalia’s most damaging criminal enterprises.