Kuwait Arrests 11 Individuals for Begging in Public Spaces

On March 6, 2025, Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior arrested 11 beggars for soliciting near mosques and markets, following directives from the Acting Prime Minister. The arrests revealed issues surrounding illegal residency and labor practices. The Ministry announced deportation protocols for violators and committed to addressing child exploitation and electronic begging.

On March 6, 2025, the Ministry of Interior in Kuwait announced the arrest of 11 individuals accused of begging near mosques and markets. The group consisted of eight women and three men, encompassing both Arab and Asian nationalities. This operation was initiated following directives from Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah as part of a broader effort to address societal issues in the country.

The statement by the General Department of Security Relations and Media revealed that several individuals had entered Kuwait on visit visas or family residency permits. Others were identified as having arrived under the pretense of “loose labor,” lacking established employment. Legal repercussions are forthcoming for companies that facilitated their unlawful hiring, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to uphold legal standards.

To manage the situation, the Ministry has made it clear that all violators will face deportation commensurate with their residency status. Individuals under Article 22 or family residency will be deported with their sponsors, while those on Article 18, working in the private sector, will face company file closures upon deportation. Domestic workers under Article 20 will also be deported, leading to restrictions on their sponsors concerning future visas.

Additionally, the Ministry aimed to combat the exploitation of children in begging. Reports indicate a case has been filed for the “exploitation of minors.” Moreover, the Ministry intends to monitor electronic begging on social media, working alongside the Department of Combating Cybercrime to enforce legal action against offenders.

The Ministry of Interior has also encouraged the public to report any observed instances of begging by utilizing dedicated hotline numbers available 24/7.

The Ministry of Interior in Kuwait has undertaken significant action to address the issue of begging by arresting 11 individuals and outlining strict legal repercussions for their actions. With a strong emphasis on public safety and legal integrity, future initiatives will focus on deterring child exploitation and enhancing vigilance against electronic begging. The Ministry’s proactive engagement with the community encourages public cooperation in reporting such incidents.

Original Source: www.arabtimesonline.com