The Kuwait Ministry of Interior arrested 11 expatriates for begging outside mosques and markets, following directives to combat societal issues. They intend to deport violators based on residency status and take legal action against the exploitation of minors for begging, while also monitoring social media for similar activities.
On March 6, 2025, the Ministry of Interior in Kuwait reported the arrest of 11 expatriates for begging in front of mosques and markets. Among those arrested, there were eight women and three men, representing both Arab and Asian nationalities. This action follows directives from Acting Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Yousef Saud Al-Sabah aimed at addressing negative societal issues in the country.
The Ministry revealed that many of the individuals apprehended had entered Kuwait on visit visas or family residency into the country, while others had arrived under temporary labor agreements without established permanent employment. Legal measures are planned against companies that contributed to their unauthorized hiring practices, underscoring the Ministry’s commitment to curbing these activities.
The Ministry’s statement clarified that all violators would face deportation depending on their residency status. Those on Article 22 or with family residency will be deported alongside their sponsors. Moreover, individuals holding Article 18 residency, who are employed in the private sector, will also be deported, leading to the termination of the sponsoring company’s file. Domestic workers under Article 20 will similarly face deportation while their sponsors will be prohibited from issuing future employment guarantees or visas.
Additionally, the Ministry intends to take firm action against those exploiting minors for begging; hence, a case concerning exploitation of minors has already been initiated against offenders. Plans are also in place to monitor begging activities online, with collaboration from the Department of Combating Cybercrime to ensure proper legal actions against the perpetrators.
In light of these developments, the Ministry of Interior has encouraged the public to promptly report any instances of begging by calling their designated hotlines, including 97288211, 97288200, 25582581, or the emergency number 112, which is available at all hours.
In summary, the Kuwait Ministry of Interior has arrested 11 expatriates for begging and outlined a robust response to combat this issue, including deportation procedures for violators based on their residency status. Furthermore, efforts will extend to preventing the exploitation of children in begging activities and monitoring digital platforms for such crimes. The public is urged to actively participate in reporting instances of begging to aid these initiatives.
Original Source: www.arabtimesonline.com
