Over 1,500 minor offenders released through ‘Fak Kurba’

MUSCAT: As many as 1,519 people detained for various minor financial offenses or non-criminal financial disputes across various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman were released through the ‘Fak Kurba’ programme, an initiative of the Oman Lawyers Association (OLA) during the holy month of Ramadhan 2026.

The annual noble event that runs through the holy month of Ramadhan, currently in its 13th edition, has managed the release of nearly 9,717 citizens and expatriates who are unintentionally caught up in financial offenses since the initiative’s launch in 2012.

The statistics released by the OLA at a press briefing show that Muscat Governorate led all governorates with 567 cases, followed by Al Batinah North with 338 cases. Al Batinah South recorded 142 cases, followed by Al Sharqiyah South (115), Dhofar (108), Al Dakhiliyah (85), Al Buraimi (67), Al Dhahirah (66), Al Sharqiyah North (25) and Al Wusta (6).

‘Fak Kurba’ holds great humanitarian and social importance as it plays a vital role in releasing those imprisoned for minor financial claims. It has achieved widespread positive impact in previous editions, according to Dr Hamad bin Hamdan al Rubaie, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Oman Lawyers Association (OLA).

The statistics released by the OLA at a press briefing show that Muscat Governorate led all governorates with 567 cases.

Speaking to the Observer, Dr Al Rubaie stated that the initiative’s sustained success reflects the deep-rooted values of compassion and solidarity within Omani society.

“This is a great achievement and the fruit of collective efforts by individuals and institutions alike, driven by a firm belief in the importance of giving those in financial hardship a second chance to rebuild their lives and restore family and social stability,” he said.

Dr Mohammed al Zadjali, General Supervisor of the initiative, affirmed that 'Fak Kurba' has continuously fulfilled its humanitarian mission for over fifteen years, alleviating the suffering of hundreds of families through broad community support and active partnerships with all relevant stakeholders.

“We at the Oman Lawyers Association, with the mission ‘Fak Kurba’, continue our humanitarian journey while affirming that every person deserves a second chance,” said Dr Al Zadjali.

The Oman Lawyers Association is committed to its humanitarian mission, restoring hope to those in financial distress and reuniting families by settling the financial obligations of eligible cases in accordance with strict criteria and standards.

The previous edition of the initiative, the 12th edition of ‘Fak Kurba’, successfully secured the release of 999 financially distressed individuals during Ramadhan 2025, making the total number of freed prisoners more than 8,000 individuals until last year.