Tuesday, June 9, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Authorities in Somalia’s Puntland state have detained 38 male police officers and one female officer following a protest in Garowe over unpaid salaries and long-standing entitlement grievances.
The officers reportedly staged a coordinated demonstration that escalated into the blocking of key roads leading into the regional capital. The action was aimed at pressuring the regional administration to address delayed salaries, unpaid allowances, and other benefits that officers say have accumulated over a long period.
Security officials confirmed that the detained personnel were transferred to Garowe Central Prison, where they are expected to face court proceedings in the coming days. However, authorities have not yet provided detailed information on the specific charges or whether disciplinary measures will accompany legal action.
The incident highlights a recurring issue within Puntland’s security forces, where salary delays and financial disputes have previously triggered protests and operational disruptions. In past instances, similar grievances have led to road blockages, temporary suspension of security duties, and internal tensions within police and military units.
The latest unrest underscores ongoing financial and administrative challenges facing regional security institutions, which rely on a combination of local revenue and external support to sustain operations. Analysts warn that continued delays in payments could further strain morale within the security sector and increase the risk of repeated protests.