Sunday November 2, 2025
Garowe (HO) — Puntland authorities have deployed 300 newly trained police officers to Garowe to strengthen security and curb rising crime in the regional capital, officials said Sunday.
The officers, who recently completed nearly a year of training at the Military College in Carmo district, are young graduates from universities and high schools selected through a competitive recruitment process. They will be stationed across police posts in Garowe and have been placed on full operational duty, with no leave permitted in the coming days, according to security officials.
Puntland has supplied the new force with vehicles, weapons, and upgraded facilities as part of a broader effort to reform and professionalize the regional police service.
President Said Abdullahi Deni said the initiative reflects his administration’s commitment to building a capable and disciplined police force across Puntland’s cities. He acknowledged that some recent security challenges were linked to misconduct among security personnel, including those involved in criminal activity and alcohol use.
“The goal is to have a knowledgeable and ethical police force that serves the public and protects the stability of Puntland’s towns,” President Deni said.
Regional sources have also linked the United Arab Emirates to ongoing financial and logistical support for Puntland’s police restructuring, including contributions to salaries and other resources.
In recent months, Garowe and other parts of Puntland have witnessed sporadic insecurity and armed incidents. Earlier this week, Puntland Police Commander Gen. Mumin Abdi Shire warned that anyone carrying weapons without authorization would face legal consequences, underscoring the administration’s renewed focus on law and order.