Somalia's prisons boss vows stricter discipline, reforms
General Hamud stressed that officers who fail to uphold standards or mistreat detainees would face strict consequences.
Major General Mohamed Sheikh Hassan Hamud, the newly appointed Commander of the Somali Custodial Corps, has introduced strict disciplinary measures and promised reforms to professionalise the force as he formally assumed office on Sunday.
General Hamud was appointed last week by the Somali Cabinet, succeeding former Commander Major General Mahad Abdirahman Aden. The official handover ceremony was presided over by Somali State Minister of Justice and Acting Minister, Ambassador Ilyas Sheikh Omar, who formally transferred duties to the new commander.
In his first address as head of the Custodial Corps, General Hamud issued several hardline directives aimed at enforcing discipline and improving operational standards.
He warned, “Any soldier or officer caught eating khat at the workplace while on duty will be dismissed from the forces.”
Strengthening Somalia’s Custodial Corps
The directives mark a decisive step toward strengthening Somalia’s Custodial Corps, which manages prisons and detention centers nationwide.
Officers were also given a five-month period to demonstrate proficiency in Somali, with the general stating, “Those unable to write in Somali within the next five months will be removed from service.”
“The Custodial Corps must set the standard for discipline, professionalism, and respect for human rights,” General Hamud said. “Officers must uphold the dignity of the force and ensure that prisoners’ rights are fully respected, regardless of their offenses.”
He emphasised that all personnel must wear proper uniforms, follow workplace regulations, and respect the chain of command.
Comprehensive reforms
Promotions, disciplinary actions, and operational authority rest with his office, and he called on senior officers to cooperate closely with the Ministry of Justice to implement comprehensive reforms.
The new commander also pledged to address internal challenges facing the corps, including improving conditions for officers, enhancing training programs, and promoting fairness and accountability. “Our goal is to build a professional, disciplined, and respected force,” he said.
General Hamud highlighted the importance of balancing authority with justice, stressing that officers who fail to uphold standards or mistreat detainees would face strict consequences. He urged personnel to demonstrate commitment to the law, maintain high ethical standards, and contribute to a transparent and effective custodial system.
General Hamud’s tenure signals a focus on discipline, operational efficiency, and respect for human rights as central pillars for the corps moving forward.