By Zakaria Soohoyde - Reporter
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HARGEISA, 2 November 2026 — Dispute over electricity prices in Somaliland has taken new turn after police announced action against several electricity companies accused of failing to comply with government directives regulating power tariffs.
In a statement, Somaliland Police Command confirmed operation was conducted on night of 1 November. Operation followed repeated summonses requiring representatives of certain electricity companies to appear before Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for questioning over ongoing pricing dispute.
Police said companies concerned had failed to respond to summonses or report to CID headquarters.
Police also rejected allegations circulated by Indho-birta in media concerning alleged use of excessive force and attempted killing during operation.
Somaliland Police Command maintained its actions were carried out in accordance with legal powers provided under Article 15, Subsection 4, of Somaliland Police Force Law.
Meanwhile, Indho-birta has presented different account of incident, alleging unidentified armed group opened fire on vehicle belonging to one of company's business associates as he was entering residence. Company has raised concerns over circumstances surrounding alleged attack.
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Broader dispute stems from Somaliland administration's decision to reject proposed electricity price increases by private power providers. Companies reportedly involved in controversy include Sompower, Indho-birta and Telesom Tec.
Companies have come under scrutiny amid disagreements over government-imposed electricity tariffs and their proposed adjustments, bringing relationship between regulators and private electricity providers under increasing pressure.
KAAH Party Condemns Reported Attack
Incident has also triggered political response, with Somaliland's KAAH Party condemning what it described as attack targeting some of territory's prominent individuals.
Party expressed concern over reported incident and security of Somaliland's business community, adding political dimension to already escalating dispute involving electricity companies and government authorities.