Garowe, Puntland – The Puntland government has introduced new, stringent measures for individuals under the age of 40 attempting to leave the region through its airports. The move comes in response to a rise in the number of young people using the automated immigration process to leave Puntland without adequate supervision.
Puntland Vice President Ilyas Osman Lugatoor addressed the new regulations, stating that any traveler under the age of 40 will now be required to have a parental guarantor in order to leave through any Puntland airport.
“Effective immediately, individuals under 40 years old without a parental guarantor will not be allowed to depart Puntland airports,” Vice President Lugatoor said.
In addition to the travel restrictions, Puntland Vice President announced that the new rules will also extend to passport issuance. Anyone under the age of 40 without a parental guarantor will not be permitted to obtain a Somali passport, he confirmed.
“These measures are being implemented for the protection of our young people and to ensure that immigration processes are fully regulated,” Vice President Lugatoor explained, adding that the new directives have been communicated to all relevant immigration agencies across the region.
The government’s decision has sparked mixed reactions, with some expressing concern over the limitations on personal freedom, while others support the measures as necessary to curb illegal migration and potential exploitation of youth.
Puntland authorities emphasized that the regulations are aimed at safeguarding the interests of young people and ensuring they are not leaving without the proper support structures in place.
@Horseedmedia
