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Somaliland police have released all employees of Consilient Limited Company who were arrested earlier this week after authorities received false reports accusing the firm of organizing a debate on Somalia’s constitution and elections.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the police said that following a detailed investigation, they found no evidence connecting Consilient Limited to any event or activity related to Somalia’s constitutional process. The arrests, they explained, were made on Monday, October 20, after law enforcement received reports that the company was conducting work that allegedly undermined Somaliland’s sovereignty. However, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) later confirmed that the information was fabricated and that the company had not organized or participated in any such program.
“The Somaliland Police Force clarifies to the public that the information was false,” the statement said. “An extensive investigation is ongoing to identify those responsible for spreading the false claims so they can be held accountable.”
According to police sources, the initial tip-off had alleged that Consilient Limited was involved in organizing a constitutional and electoral debate related to Somalia—claims that quickly spread on social media. Posts and documents circulated online appeared to suggest that the company had been coordinating discussions on the Somali constitution, sparking public concern and drawing the attention of security authorities.
However, after verifying the information, investigators determined that the reports were baseless. They said the documents shared online were fake, and there was no credible link between Consilient Limited and any political activity concerning Somalia’s internal affairs. Police emphasized that the company operates legally within Somaliland and had not violated any laws.
The incident highlights the growing impact of misinformation in Somaliland’s online space, where unverified claims often spread rapidly and create confusion. Authorities warned that spreading false or misleading information—especially on matters of national sovereignty—can have serious consequences. They urged citizens to verify information from official sources before sharing it online.
Despite the police’s clarification, some social media users have continued to express skepticism, insisting that the reports about the alleged debate were true. Others, however, have welcomed the police’s transparency, saying it was important to clear the company’s name and prevent further damage to its reputation.
Observers say the case serves as a reminder of how quickly misinformation can escalate into major incidents in the digital era. A single unverified post can lead to public alarm, official action, and damage to reputations before the truth emerges. The police have pledged to track down those who created and circulated the false information, promising legal action once the investigation is complete.
For now, Consilient Limited and its employees have been cleared of all allegations. The company has not issued an official statement, but sources close to its management said staff members were relieved to be released and are cooperating with authorities to help trace the origin of the false claims.
As Somaliland continues to strengthen its institutions, the case underscores the importance of responsible information-sharing and fact-checking in maintaining public trust and security. Authorities say they will continue to take firm action against the deliberate spread of misinformation, which they view as a threat to national unity and stability.