Military Prosecution
Leading and advancing prosecutions within the armed forces, grounded in the military penal code and court-martial procedure.
I have devoted my career to upholding the law, justice and discipline within the armed forces. My work rests on a simple principle: every service member stands equal before the law, while human rights and the lawfulness of operations are protected.
The work I lead day to day, focused on justice that is both prompt and genuine within the armed forces.
Leading and advancing prosecutions within the armed forces, grounded in the military penal code and court-martial procedure.
Directing prosecutorial investigations, gathering evidence, and ensuring every investigative step complies with the law.
Advising on military statutes, orders and agreements, and assessing legal risk for command decisions.
Safeguarding human rights and international humanitarian law (IHL) during operations and in garrison.
Designing and delivering legal training for officers and troops to strengthen discipline and lawful conduct.
Working with international bodies and development partners to strengthen the military justice system.
My academic and professional path in law and military justice.
Successfully completed the International English Test and achieved CEFR Level B1 (Intermediate) English proficiency. The certification assesses English language ability across Grammar, Vocabulary, Reading, and Listening and recognises the ability to communicate effectively on familiar topics and understand clear standard English in everyday, professional, and travel-related situations.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif participated in the International Training Programme on Combating Terrorism Crimes, organised in Ankara by the Justice Academy of Türkiye in cooperation with the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA). The programme focused on professional and international approaches to addressing terrorism-related crimes, strengthening participants’ understanding of legal and judicial responses to terrorism and enabling the exchange of professional knowledge and experience.
Successfully completed a two-day refresher training on International Fair Trial Standards, organized by the UNSOM Human Rights and Protection Group in Mogadishu on 6–7 November 2018. The training strengthened professional understanding of internationally recognized fair-trial principles and human-rights standards relevant to the administration of justice.
Successfully completed professional legal training in sources of legal obligation and its role in evidence, jointly held by Benadir University and the International University of Africa, Faculty of Sharia and Law, from 11–13 September 2018.
Participated in a specialized legal and Sharia training programme on the foundations of achieving justice, jointly organized by Benadir University and the International University of Africa on 3–4 March 2018. The programme addressed judicial independence, separation of powers, and contemporary issues relating to the application of Islamic law.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif successfully completed the Cadet Officer’s Course conducted by the Uganda Police Force at the Police Training School Kabalye-Masindi. The programme was an extended period of professional officer training, providing foundational preparation for leadership, discipline, policing responsibilities, command, and professional service within a structured law-enforcement training environment.
A cultural visit to Cappadocia, one of Türkiye’s most distinctive destinations, known for its extraordinary landscapes, historic rock formations and rich cultural heritage.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif visited Karura Forest in Nairobi, exploring its natural environment as well as areas highlighting the archaeological and historical heritage associated with the forest. The visit combined an appreciation of nature with an opportunity to learn more about Kenya’s environmental and cultural heritage.
Participated in the 2025 East Africa Counterterrorism and Transnational Crime Roundtable, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, from 21–23 January 2025. The programme convened justice and security professionals to address regional approaches to counterterrorism and transnational crime.
During a visit to Ankara, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif visited the Presidential Nation’s Library (Cumhurbaşkanlığı Millet Kütüphanesi), located within Türkiye’s Presidential Complex. The visit provided an opportunity for independent study, exploration of its extensive collections, and engagement with the modern research and learning facilities available at the library.
On 22 December 2024, during his time in Ankara, Türkiye, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif visited Anıtkabir, a major historical and national memorial site in the Turkish capital. The visit provided an opportunity to explore an important part of Türkiye’s modern history and national heritage, including the memorial complex and its historical exhibitions. It was a valuable cultural experience that gave him a deeper appreciation of the country’s history, institutions, and preservation of national memory.
During a visit to the Netherlands, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif spent time in Amsterdam, experiencing the city’s distinctive urban environment, architecture and cultural atmosphere.
During a community engagement in Eskilstuna, Sweden, on 9 December 2024, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif met with members of the Somali community and discussed developments in Somalia, including the country’s security recovery and economic progress. At the request of participants, the session also included a general educational discussion on cryptocurrency and digital financial markets. The interest in the topic followed an earlier public courtroom explanation in Somalia in which he had explained the concept and operation of cryptocurrency in the context of a legal proceeding.
During a visit to Eskilstuna, Sweden, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif received a warm welcome from members of the Somali community and took part in a friendly football event with Somali youth. The visit concluded with the presentation of a trophy and medal, reflecting friendship, community engagement and the positive role of sport in bringing people together.
During a visit to Helsinki, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif explored Finland’s capital and experienced its urban environment, culture and Nordic atmosphere.
During a visit to Rome, Italy, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif visited the historic Colosseum, one of the most renowned monuments of ancient Rome. The visit provided an opportunity to experience an important part of Roman history, architecture and cultural heritage.
Participated in a regional professional roundtable focused on counterterrorism and transnational crime, held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 20–22 May 2024. The programme brought together justice and security professionals to engage on regional approaches to complex cross-border security and criminal justice challenges.
On 7 February 2024, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif visited the FBI office in Somalia for a professional engagement focused on strengthening cooperation in the investigation of terrorism-related crimes. The discussions explored practical ways to enhance collaboration and information-sharing in support of investigations into terrorist activities that pose security threats both within Somalia and internationally. The engagement reflected the importance of cooperation between Somali justice and security institutions and international partners in addressing transnational terrorism and strengthening investigative capacity.
On 4 February 2021, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif welcomed H.E. Hassan Hussein Haji, then Minister of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia, during an official visit to the Office of the Armed Forces Prosecution in Mogadishu. He gave the visiting delegation an institutional briefing on the work and functions of the Office, presenting an overview of the Office's working procedures, including the management of active case files and the processes used to organise and follow up cases. He also demonstrated the electronic case-management system used by the Office to register, organise, store and manage case files, highlighting the role of digital records in improving institutional efficiency, record management and accountability. The visit demonstrated the practical functioning of the prosecution office and its continuing efforts to strengthen professional case management, prosecution administration, institutional organisation and the administration of military justice, as part of the Office's broader institutional development.
On 14 January 2021, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif travelled to Wanlaweyn District in the Lower Shabelle region as part of a professional mission involving officers from the Armed Forces Court. The mission followed a serious outbreak of inter-community violence that had resulted in loss of life, destruction of property, and significant insecurity within the area. The immediate priorities were to contribute to restoring stability, support efforts to prevent further violence, and conduct inquiries aimed at identifying those responsible for organising and driving the conflict. The subsequent investigation also examined indications that the violence had been deliberately aggravated by Al-Shabaab elements seeking to exploit tensions between local communities. Following an extensive investigative process, individuals found to have been involved were brought before the Armed Forces Court, where legal action was taken in accordance with the applicable law. The mission was an important professional experience in understanding how community conflict, criminal investigation, counterterrorism considerations, and the administration of justice can intersect in complex security environments.
On 26 December 2020, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was part of a team of officers assigned to a professional mission in Marka District, Lower Shabelle, following a security incident involving an armed confrontation linked to local clan tensions. The mission focused on supporting the restoration of stability, conducting a structured investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, and identifying those responsible. Working with the officers assigned to the mission, the team contributed to de-escalating the situation and completing the investigation. The findings were subsequently submitted to the Armed Forces Court, enabling the Court to take appropriate legal action against individuals found to have been involved in the incident. This field assignment provided valuable practical experience in conflict-sensitive investigations, evidence gathering, security-sector accountability, community stability, and the application of the rule of law in complex environments.
On 4 June 2020, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif participated in a military legal-awareness mission to Dhanaane, Lower Shabelle, alongside Col. Hassan Ali Nur Shuute, Chairman of the Armed Forces Court. The delegation travelled to the area by sea, supported by vessels and personnel of the Somali Police Coast Guard, to engage with security forces deployed on the frontline. The primary purpose of the mission was to strengthen awareness among deployed personnel regarding their legal and disciplinary responsibilities while conducting military operations. The discussions emphasised compliance with applicable rules governing armed conflict, respect for military laws and regulations, maintenance of discipline, and the importance of responsible conduct during operations. Particular emphasis was placed on discipline and mutual respect among members of the security forces, including the prevention of internal armed confrontations and the need to resolve disagreements through established command structures and lawful procedures. The mission reflected the importance of combining operational readiness with military discipline, legal awareness, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
On 14 November 2019, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was part of a team of officers assigned to Barawe District, Lower Shabelle, to investigate an armed confrontation involving two security units and to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. The assignment focused on conducting a field-based investigation, gathering relevant information and evidence, assessing the circumstances that led to the confrontation, and establishing the responsibilities of those involved. Following the investigation, the findings were documented and referred through the appropriate military justice procedures, allowing the matter to proceed in accordance with applicable law and institutional processes. The mission contributed to his practical experience in field investigations, evidence gathering, security-sector accountability, conflict assessment, and military justice procedures, particularly in situations requiring both legal professionalism and an understanding of complex security environments.
Following the completion of police training at Kabalye Police Training School in Uganda, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif returned to Somalia in 2016 and began operational service within the Somali Police Force. Before his appointment to the Office of the Prosecutor of the Armed Forces, he served in a security unit responsible for protecting key national institutions, officials, diplomatic missions, and international entities. His responsibilities included the security of Members of Parliament; protection of the House of the People and the Upper House; security of ministries and other government institutions; protection of foreign embassies, international organisations, foreign companies, and local compounds; and escort and protective-security duties for national leaders and diplomats. This assignment provided early professional experience in protective security, institutional security, operational discipline, and the protection of national and international personnel and facilities.
Following the completion of police training at Kabalye Police Training School in Uganda, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif returned to Somalia and began serving within the Somali Police Force. During this period, he served in a unit responsible for the protection of diplomats, government institutions, Members of Parliament, foreign embassies, international organisations, and other protected persons and facilities. Alongside his operational duties, he continued attending professional and legal education classes focused on the laws of Somalia. These classes were conducted alongside regular police responsibilities and were designed to strengthen understanding of the country's legal framework and its application to law-enforcement duties. This combination of operational police service and continuing legal education provided an important foundation for his later transition into the military justice system and his subsequent appointment to the Office of the Prosecutor of the Armed Forces.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif completed the YALI Network course Management Strategies for People and Resources. The Young African Leaders Initiative awarded the certificate in recognition of successful completion. The programme addressed the management of people and organisational resources, including team management, resource planning, and the alignment of people with institutional priorities.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif successfully completed JS-US007-14 Level I Antiterrorism Awareness Training, a two-hour programme delivered through Joint Knowledge Online. The training developed foundational awareness of terrorism-related risks, personal protection measures, and responsible security practices.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif attended the online course Leadership as a self-learner on schoox.com. The self-directed programme supported core leadership awareness, including personal responsibility, communication, team direction, and the practical behaviours that help people work toward shared objectives. The certificate was signed by Dr. Elef Ntouanoglou.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif successfully passed the online course Management for a Competitive Edge, offered through Open2Study by the International College of Management Sydney. The course covered introduction to management, management tools, strategy, and leading. He completed it with a final score of 65%.
Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif successfully passed the online course Human Resources, offered through Open2Study by the Open Training Institute. The course covered the evolution of people management, recruitment in the digital age, learning and development, and performance management. He completed it with a final score of 73%.
On 24 November 2024, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was officially promoted from the rank of Captain (Dhamme) to Major (Gaashaanle) in the Somali Police Force pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 350. His name appears as No. 9 on the official presidential promotion list. This promotion represents another milestone in his professional career and reflects the responsibilities entrusted to him in the service of justice, national security, and the rule of law in Somalia.
On 24 June 2024, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was promoted from the rank of First Lieutenant (Laba Xiddigle) to Captain (Dhamme) as part of the official promotion of officers of the Somali Police Force, pursuant to Presidential Decree No. 232. His name appears as No. 66 on the official promotion list.
On 5 November 2019, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was promoted from the rank of Second Lieutenant (Xiddigle) to First Lieutenant (Laba Xiddigle) by Presidential Decree No. 216 of the Federal Republic of Somalia. His name appears as No. 6 in the decree, which formally authorised the promotion and the responsibilities and entitlements associated with the new rank.
Following the successful completion of officer training at Kabalye Police Training School in Uganda, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was promoted to the rank of Second Lieutenant (Xiddigle) under a presidential promotion decision of the Federal Republic of Somalia. The official promotion order was circulated by the Somali Police Force, Office of the Commissioner, on 4 January 2018. His name appears as No. 45 on the official list of officers promoted to the rank of Xiddigle.
On 26 March 2022, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was appointed Deputy Attorney General of the Somali Armed Forces, in the post printed as Ku-xigeen Xeer-ilaalinta G.C.Q.S, by Presidential Decree No. 478. His name appears as No. 6. The decree was issued at the Office of the President in Mogadishu and signed by the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed "Farmaajo". It is titled Kordhin Howl-Wadeennada Garsoorka Ciidamada Qalabka Sida and appoints judicial personnel of the Somali Armed Forces. It took into account a proposal of the Chairman of the Armed Forces Court, reference LR/MCQS/077/2022, dated 5 March 2022. The appointment took effect on the date the President signed the decree.
On 5 August 2018, Mohamed Abdullahi Khalif was appointed Assistant to the Attorney General of the Somali Armed Forces, in the post printed as Kaaliyaha Xeer-Ilaaliyaha C.Q.S, by Presidential Decree No. 106. His name appears as No. 11, and the rank printed beside his name is X/Le Bol. The decree was issued at the Office of the President in Mogadishu and signed by the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed "Farmaajo". Titled U Cusbooneysiin Xubnaha Xeer-Ilaalinta Ciidamada Qalabka Sida Mudada Shaqada, it renewed the term of service and made appointments for members of the prosecution of the Somali Armed Forces. It took into account a proposal of the Chairman of the Supreme Court of the Armed Forces, reference MS/CQS/127/18, dated 1 August 2018. The decree took effect when the President signed it.
A selection of the projects and initiatives I have led or contributed to.
Led a team that produced a new procedure bringing speed and transparency to military case management.
Contributed to a legal handbook setting out the duties and rights of every service member.
Designed a training programme on military law that reached officers and troops across the force.
Helped establish a procedure for investigating and accounting for complaints from civilians.
Launched a rapid investigation team that cut the time cases spend awaiting resolution.
Strengthened ties with international bodies to secure training and technical support.
Reflections and analysis on law, justice and military discipline.
During a visit to Mogadishu Central Prison, I addressed a group of members of the Somali Armed Forces who had…
During criminal proceedings involving a defendant who had reportedly been apprehended in connection with an Improvised Explosive Device (IED), I…
During criminal proceedings concerning a fatal shooting involving an AK-47 rifle, I delivered a prosecutorial submission addressing the defence's assertion…
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