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Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni has officially signed into law the “Puntland Anti-Terrorism Law,” a controversial new measure that grants expanded powers to security agencies in the region. The legislation, which was approved by the Puntland Parliament in late July 2025, has now been published in the official gazette, making it legally binding across the region.
The new law gives Puntland’s security forces greater authority to act swiftly against terrorism-related threats. It allows them to take exceptional measures that go beyond what is normally permitted under the Puntland Constitution. Among the most notable provisions, security officers can now enter homes or private premises without a judicial warrant if they are pursuing terrorism suspects. The law also authorizes the monitoring of phone calls and communications of individuals suspected of being linked to terrorist activities.
These measures have sparked a heated debate among legal experts, human rights advocates, and members of the public. Critics argue that some parts of the new legislation may conflict with Article 21 of the Puntland Constitution, which explicitly prohibits unauthorized searches, surveillance, or spying. That article only allows such actions in urgent situations — for instance, when police are actively chasing a criminal or responding to a crime that is underway. Opponents fear that the law could give too much unchecked power to the authorities, potentially leading to abuses or violations of citizens’ rights.
Despite these concerns, Puntland officials have defended the new law, describing it as a necessary step to strengthen national security and combat terrorism more effectively. They argue that existing legal frameworks were not strong enough to address the growing threat of extremist groups, particularly ISIS militants operating in parts of the Bari region. According to government sources, the law aims to ensure that security forces can respond quickly to emerging threats without being hindered by lengthy legal processes.
The legislation also introduces tough penalties for anyone found guilty of supporting, joining, or aiding terrorist organizations. Convictions could lead to long prison sentences of up to 20 years, while individuals involved in severe or violent acts of terrorism could face the death penalty. Authorities have confirmed that the law will also apply to individuals already serving sentences for terrorism-related offenses, meaning their cases could be reviewed or retried under the new legal framework.
President Deni and his administration have made counterterrorism one of their top priorities, especially as Puntland continues its offensive against ISIS-linked militants in remote areas of the Bari region. The government has recently intensified military operations, targeting both active fighters and those believed to be offering logistical or ideological support to the group. In several recent statements, President Deni has emphasized that the fight against terrorism will not only focus on the militants themselves but also on those who assist or sympathize with them in any capacity.
Supporters of the law say it reflects Puntland’s determination to secure peace and stability, which they believe is essential for development and governance. However, human rights organizations have warned that the law must be applied carefully and transparently to avoid infringing on citizens’ constitutional freedoms. They have called for clear oversight mechanisms to ensure that security agencies remain accountable while implementing the new powers granted to them.
As the debate continues, the passage of the Puntland Anti-Terrorism Law marks a significant shift in the region’s legal and security landscape. It signals a more aggressive stance by the Puntland government in dealing with terrorism but also raises pressing questions about the balance between national security and individual rights. The true impact of the new law will likely become clearer in the coming months as authorities begin enforcing its provisions on the ground.