Puntland bans the use of drones ahead of elections

Puntland’s government has banned the use of drones in the region, which it says is posing a significant security issue.

In a statement from the Ministry of Security, Puntland said that unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), more popularly known as drones, cannot be deployed near any ports of entry, including seaports and airports as well as government security checkpoints.

The Puntland government noted that the use of photography drones has been on the rise in recent years.

The Ministry of Security has also instructed security agencies to be extra vigilant in strengthening security in Puntland during this election period.

It is unclear if registered media groups are exempt from the directive or if the Ministry of Security is handing out exemptions to accredited organizations. 

Legally, a drone permit is not required for recreational flying in Somalia, but the federal government offers guidelines for drone pilots. A permit is required for commercial drone use in Somalia.