By Mohamed Qaal - Reporter
Somalia, 25 January 2026 Police in Somalia’s North East State on Saturday denied that the terrorist group Al-Shabaab is operating in Las Anod, after a video circulating on social media suggested otherwise.
The footage shows five masked individuals wearing what appear to be military-style uniforms and claims they are present in Las Anod and linked to Al-Shabaab.
“Following investigation and verification, we confirm that the video is entirely fabricated using artificial intelligence and designed to damage reputations, create fear and mislead the public,” the police statement said.
Authorities said the video contained inconsistencies in location, audio, and visuals.
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Police added there is no evidence of Al-Shabaab bases or activity in Las Anod or elsewhere in North East State, describing the security situation as stable.
Al-Shabaab, which has links to Al-Qaeda, has carried out attacks in parts of Somalia but has not publicly claimed responsibility for the video.
Las Anod has faced periods of insecurity in recent years, though it is unclear who circulated the disputed video.