When staff are detained, panic spreads fast. Internal teams scramble for answers. Stakeholders press for updates. And behind the scenes, someone always suggests “just paying to make it go away.” But bribery isn’t an option—especially if you plan to keep operating with integrity.

This case study is especially relevant if you are:

• A founder or executive operating in Sub-Saharan Africa or other complex jurisdictions

• A risk, compliance, or legal advisor navigating murky local enforcement

• A board member responsible for crisis oversight without escalation

• A field leader managing operations under unpredictable political conditions

• An impact investor protecting people and reputation during legal uncertainty

A private response to a public risk—without lawsuits, headlines, or blame.

This case study walks through how Pholus helped a client respond calmly and legally after local staff were detained without formal charges. Instead of bribery, we coordinated with trusted advisors, reestablished communication, surfaced key documentation, and de-escalated the situation. Staff were released unharmed. No press. No fallout. No compromise.

If you’re operating in a place where the rules shift suddenly, this case study is worth a read.