Kuwait has enacted a media ban on reporting about a raffle draw manipulation investigation to protect national interests and minimize potential harm before convictions can be established. The inquiry revealed serious criminal activities involving several suspects, leading to arrests and evidence seizures, including valuable items and digital records. Updates will follow once investigations conclude.
Kuwait’s chief prosecutor has implemented a media ban regarding the investigation into a major raffle draw manipulation case that has generated considerable public attention. This measure aims to prevent any adverse effects of media reporting on the ongoing inquiry and to protect national interests. The Kuwaiti public prosecution stated the necessity of this action lies in minimizing risks to individuals and entities prior to any proven convictions.
The controversy began when a video surfaced online, allegedly depicting manipulation of the raffle draw process. The Interior Ministry confirmed that the individual shown is a Kuwaiti citizen who served as the head of the draws department at the Ministry of Commerce. Investigations revealed that he abused his position to manipulate prize draws, favoring specific individuals for monetary gain.
Subsequent investigations by the public prosecution have implicated six individuals, including five expatriates, in serious offenses such as forgery, bribery, and money laundering, which reportedly caused significant harm to national interests. Arrest warrants have been issued for these six suspects, alongside three international warrants for others who have fled the country.
During searches at the residences of the suspects, authorities found a variety of valuable items, including gold jewelry, luxury watches, and cash, believed to be linked to the fraudulent activities under investigation. Furthermore, critical evidence, such as documents, laptops, and mobile phones containing details of the manipulation, was confiscated. In a preventive measure, the public prosecution has also ordered the freezing of the suspects’ bank deposits and is investigating their financial transactions closely.
The Kuwaiti public prosecution has taken decisive action by banning media coverage of a raffle scam inquiry aimed at safeguarding national interests and protecting individuals until due process unfolds. Investigations have uncovered serious criminal activities, leading to multiple arrests and the confiscation of valuables linked to the fraudulent schemes. The authorities remain committed to transparency, promising to update the media upon the completion of their investigations.
Original Source: gulfnews.com
