Puntland Condemns Ransom Payment, Accuses Turkey of Deadly Airstrikes in Pirate Crisis

Puntland's security ministry welcomed the release of the MV LUTUF and its crew after an August 17 hijacking, but sharply criticized the federal government and Turkish forces for allegedly paying a ransom and conducting deadly airstrikes. The incident highlights a rift between Puntland and Mogadishu over counter-piracy tactics, with Turkey's role in Somalia escalating. The release resolves the immediate hostage crisis, but the political fallout and accusations of civilian casualties remain unresolved.