Friday September 27, 2024
Garowe (HOL) — Puntland Security Forces have arrested Abdiqani Dayib Awnur Soolle, one of the Somali pirates allegedly involved in the hijacking of the MV Abdalla earlier this year.
The arrest occurred in the Eyl district and surrounding areas, where Soolle had been hiding, according to a police statement.
Authorities stated that intelligence gathered on the suspect led to the successful operation. His arrest marked the third suspect arrested since the ship was taken hostage in March.
In June, Puntland police, in coordination with Somali security forces, conducted an anti-piracy operation in Galkayo, leading to the arrest of Abshir Abdi Kheyre Jowfe, 38, the commander behind the MV Abdalla hijacking.
The MV Abdalla, carrying 23 Bangladeshi crew members, was hijacked on March 12, 2024, and diverted to the Somali coast. Pirates fortified the vessel with heavy artillery to deter rescue efforts. The crew was held hostage for weeks before being released following extensive negotiations, which resulted in a $5 million ransom payment.