Kuwait Probes Extensive Raffle Fraud Involving Egyptian Suspect and Officials
Kuwaiti authorities are investigating an Egyptian woman involved in a fraud network manipulating raffle draws. The primary suspect was arrested at the airport while attempting to flee. The case, involving others including Ministry of Commerce staff, reveals a broader scheme dating back to 2023 with potential international connections. Investigators have initiated formal charges for fraud and money laundering.
Kuwaiti authorities are investigating a suspected fraud network manipulating raffle draws, involving an Egyptian woman accused of dubious prize wins. The primary suspect was apprehended at Kuwait International Airport while attempting to leave the country.
The investigation has garnered significant public attention, also implicating a Ministry of Commerce employee and the woman’s spouse, both of whom have been detained. The fraud scheme reportedly began in 2023 and may involve over six individuals, with links potentially extending beyond Kuwait.
Initial findings indicate that the woman entered multiple raffles using different variations of her name to avoid detection. She allegedly won seven cars, which were registered under her husband’s name and sold for profit. Authorities suspect the fraud ring includes participants of various nationalities, including Egyptians, Indians, Asians, and Kuwaiti citizens.
Investigators are seeking permission to access communication records to fully understand the network’s extent. The case has been escalated to the Public Prosecution, pursuing charges for fraud, forgery, and money laundering, among others, due to the serious impact on Kuwait’s economic systems.
A senior source highlighted the organized nature of this scheme: “This is not a simple case of one person exploiting a loophole. We are looking at an organized effort to manipulate public raffles and profit illegally.” The case raises concerns about the integrity of commercial practices and government oversight in Kuwait.
Kuwait’s investigation into raffle fraud highlights serious issues of trust in the country’s commercial systems. The arrest of the primary suspect and involvement of multiple individuals reflect an organized effort to manipulate raffle draws for illicit gains. The pursuit of charges underlines the importance of integrity in economic activities and the need for robust government oversight.
Original Source: gulfnews.com
