Firqa (military)

For the musical ensemble, see Firqa.

A Firqa (Arabic: فِرْقَة, lit. 'band'; called Firqat in plural), is a local militia unit loyal to the Sultan of Oman raised in the Dhofar region of Oman during the Dhofar War.^[1] The British were known for utilising Firqa during their counter insurgency operations in support of the Sultan's operations in the region, converting former enemies into pro-government militia to aid in counter-insurgency;^[2] this was a tactic the British had successfully employed in Malaya.^[3] Forming local Firqa was therefore great way to employ surrendered enemy personnel (SEPs) and thus pacify areas of the Dhofari Jebel and set the conditions for infrastructure development.^[4]

Firqa irregulars on parade with regular SAF units in 1981

During the insurgency in Dhofar Firqa forces proved invaluable as both a tactical and psychological weapon; although their use beyond Jebali tribal areas was problematic.^[5]

Firqa continued at least until recent times; as recently as 1990 the Omani government was issuing payments of 120-140 rials per month. This payment was both to maintain a pro-government paramilitary force, as well as to enable nomadic Omanis to continue living in their traditional areas.^[6]