MOGADISHU, Somalia — Security forces in Mogadishu late last night raided a hotel where lawmakers and politicians from Puntland were staying, arresting a senior presidential adviser and drawing sharp condemnation from regional authorities.
Police detained Ahmed Abdi Mahmoud Hurre, also known as Ahmed Hurre, an adviser to the Puntland president, hours after a group of Puntland lawmakers reported being denied a flight to Garowe, the administrative capital of Puntland.
In a statement posted on Facebook, the Somali Police Force said Hurre was arrested on suspicion of engaging in activities that threaten national security.
“The Somali Police Force, fulfilling their national duties, has arrested the accused Ahmed Abdi Mahmoud Hurre, who was engaged in acts against security, and an investigation is underway,” the statement read. Authorities did not immediately provide further details regarding the nature of the allegations.
The Puntland presidency strongly condemned the operation, describing it as a deliberate act targeting its officials and representatives. In a statement, Puntland authorities characterized Hurre’s detention as a “kidnapping” and accused federal security forces of attacking lawmakers from the region.
The incident comes at a politically sensitive moment. Somalia’s Federal Parliament of Somalia is expected to vote today on proposed amendments to the country’s Transitional Federal Constitution of Somalia.
The amendments have been strongly backed by Federal President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose current term is set to expire on May 15. Supporters argue the changes are necessary to advance constitutional reforms, while critics say the process has lacked sufficient consultation.
Lawmakers from Puntland, along with representatives from Jubbaland and opposition groups, have voiced firm opposition to the proposed amendments. They contend that proper legislative procedures and consultation mechanisms were not followed and accuse the federal government of leveraging its authority over members of parliament as its mandate nears its end.
The developments underscore escalating political tensions between Somalia’s federal government and some of its member states, raising concerns about stability as the country approaches a pivotal constitutional vote.
No injuries were reported in the hotel raid, and it remains unclear whether additional arrests were made. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
