Sunday 15,March 2026 {HMC} The commander of the Somaliland Coast Guard has urged holidaymakers traveling to coastal towns to follow official safety guidance, saying only the Coast Guard has the legal authority to designate safe swimming areas.
Admiral Ahmed Hurre Haariye issued the warning on Saturday ahead of peak holiday travel to Berbera and other coastal towns, where thousands of people typically gather during Eid and other public holidays.
“Anyone who wants to know safe areas for swimming should consult the Coast Guard,” he said, emphasizing that maritime security falls solely under his agency’s mandate.
He cautioned against relying on guidance from other institutions, including non-governmental organizations or government bodies that are not legally tasked with coastal security.
“The law clearly defines who is responsible for maritime security,” he said, adding that the Coast Guard operates a 24-hour hotline for emergencies and assistance.
Each year, large numbers of visitors from Hargeisa, Borama and Burco travel to Berbera’s beaches during holidays. Overcrowding and unfamiliarity with local sea conditions have, in the past, led to drownings and other safety incidents.
The commander did not specify any particular threat but stressed the importance of cooperation with security personnel to prevent accidents.
The warning comes at a time of heightened attention on Somaliland’s coastline. Israel recently recognized Somaliland as a sovereign state and is reportedly exploring closer security ties with the self-declared republic, including assessing coastal sites west of Berbera for potential strategic cooperation.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but has not gained broad international recognition. Its coastline along the Gulf of Aden sits near major international shipping lanes and across from Yemen, an area that has drawn increased geopolitical interest in recent months.
