Politicians and activists arrested in Puntland over criticism of Kismayu conference

Politicians and civil society activists were Friday arrested in Puntland on claims of posing a threat to the security of the region.

The politicians among them former ministers were arrested and detained in Garowe following what sources said had been their opposition to the Kismayu meeting attended by heads of regional states last week.

Former federal MP Dahir Muse, former state minister for health Dr. Abdirahman Mohamed and Duni Gullato were among those arrested. Faisal Ali a one time a Director General for the state hospitals was also detained.

Speaking to Goobjoog News, a member of the Save Puntland Forum who did not want to be named for security reason confirmed noting authorities accused them of forming an illegal entity.

“These politicians and entrepreneur people were arrested yesterday and are unlawfully held in custody among them Dr. Abdirahman Dhegaweyne who was a former state Minister for Health and director of the Save Puntland Forum. We contacted with the Puntland administration especially the governor of this area and they said those arrested had committed an offense of forming an illegal organisation.”

There was no immediate comment from Puntland authorities.