Wednesday May 21, 2025
Garowe (HOL) – Puntland Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor on Tuesday announced the rollout of CCTV surveillance systems across Garowe, the regional capital, as part of new measures to tackle rising insecurity in the city.
Speaking to the media, Vice President Lugatoor emphasized the critical role surveillance footage has played in solving recent high-profile cases, including rape and murder. He noted that suspects involved in serious crimes were apprehended thanks to evidence captured by existing CCTV cameras in some parts of the city.
The Puntland administration has begun installing cameras at major intersections and strategic locations throughout Garowe. The initiative is expected to bolster the city’s capacity to monitor criminal activity, respond quickly to incidents, and improve overall public safety.
Lugatoor also issued a directive to local business owners, urging them to install CCTV cameras on their premises.
“These systems are not only vital for individual business security, but also serve the wider community during times of unrest or criminal activity,” he said.
The announcement follows a surge in insecurity in Garowe, with reports of civilian killings, sexual violence, and violent confrontations involving military personnel. Security agencies attribute many of these crimes to individuals under the influence of drugs, a local alcoholic substance, including some within the armed forces.
The move echoes a similar initiative the Federal Government took in Mogadishu, where widespread CCTV installation along main roads and private properties has contributed to reducing crime in the capital.
Garowe residents hope the surveillance expansion will help restore peace and deter criminal behavior in the face of growing security challenges.