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Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor says new surveillance initiative aims to curb rising crime and enhance public safety through modern technology.
Puntland’s Vice President, Ilyas Osman Lugatoor, has announced the start of a city-wide CCTV camera installation project in Garowe, the capital of the region. This move comes in response to a recent rise in crime, including incidents of murder and sexual violence.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Lugatoor said the new surveillance system is part of a broader effort to improve security and ensure the safety of Garowe residents. He stressed the importance of CCTV footage in helping law enforcement solve crimes. According to him, recent criminal cases were successfully investigated because some areas of the city already had surveillance cameras in place.
“CCTV cameras have helped us track down and arrest suspects involved in serious crimes,” Lugatoor said. “They give us real-time evidence and help police respond faster during emergencies.”
The government has already started installing cameras at key intersections and other important areas throughout the city. These spots were chosen carefully to allow better monitoring of public spaces, road traffic, and locations where crimes are more likely to occur.
The Vice President also called on business owners in Garowe to set up CCTV systems on their premises. He explained that such efforts not only help protect businesses but also support the larger community by providing valuable footage during times of unrest or crime.
“These cameras are useful not just for your own security, but for helping the city stay safe,” he said.
This new initiative comes at a time when Garowe has seen an increase in violent incidents, including killings and cases of sexual assault. Some of the crimes have reportedly involved military personnel and individuals under the influence of drugs or local alcohol. Security officials believe that installing CCTV cameras will help curb these incidents by acting as both a deterrent and a useful tool for tracking suspects.
Residents of Garowe have welcomed the move and are hopeful that it will help restore peace and safety in the city. Many believe that visible surveillance will make criminals think twice before committing offenses, especially in busy areas where cameras are installed.
The effort in Garowe follows a similar program launched in Mogadishu by the Federal Government. In the Somali capital, widespread CCTV coverage along major roads and near private buildings has been credited with helping reduce crime and increase public safety.
In Garowe, the Puntland administration hopes to achieve the same results. The cameras are expected to improve the ability of police and other security forces to respond quickly to incidents, gather clear evidence, and keep better watch over high-risk zones.
Overall, this new step marks a major development in Puntland’s strategy to deal with growing insecurity. It signals the government’s intention to use modern technology to support law enforcement and create a safer environment for everyone living in the regional capital.