Security Administration: The Shurtah
Internal security in the Islamic political tradition is centered on the Shurtah—a dedicated executive body tasked with maintaining public order, executing judicial verdicts, and preventing crime.
The Institution of the Shurtah
The term Shurtah (literally 'mark' or 'sign') refers to the distinct uniform or badges worn by those selected to preserve the peace. While informal security existed during the Prophetic era, the formalization of the police force began under the second Khalifah, Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra), through the Asas (night watch).
The Sahib al-Shurtah
The Commander of the Police (Sahib al-Shurtah) was historically one of the most senior administrative positions. In the Umayyad and Abbasid periods, he was responsible for the security of the capital and often served as a deputy to the Governor (Wali).
Executive Powers
The Shurtah possesses the power of arrest, search, and seizure. They are responsible for the management of prisons and the physical execution of Hudud punishments.
Legal Limitations
Unlike the Qadi, the Shurtah cannot generally issue legal judgments (Hukm), but can act on suspicion (Tuhmah) to prevent immediate harm.
Jurisdictional Relationships
The Shurtah operates within a tripartite system of social order alongside the Judiciary and the Hisbah.
Relationship with the Qadi
The Qadi (Judge) determines the law and issues the verdict. The Shurtah acts as the "arm of the court," bringing suspects to trial and ensuring that the judge's rulings are carried out. In later periods, the Shurtah were granted limited summary jurisdiction over criminal matters where proof was evident but a formal trial was pending.
Relationship with the Muhtasib
While the Muhtasib (Market Inspector) focuses on public morality and commercial integrity, the Shurtah deals with violent crime, theft, and disturbances of the peace. The two bodies often collaborate during public festivals and in crowded urban centers.
Historical Development
Under the Abbasids, the Shurtah became highly specialized. There was the al-Shurtah al-Kubra (The Great Police) for high-stakes political security and the al-Shurtah al-Sughra (The Minor Police) for everyday urban policing. In Al-Andalus, the Sahib al-Madina (Provost of the City) combined these roles with broader municipal duties.