Expat's 36-Year Illegal Kuwaiti Citizenship Uncovered
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An expatriate who fraudulently obtained Kuwaiti citizenship 36 years ago is now facing legal action as Kuwait intensifies efforts to clamp down on illegal nationality holders.
Kuwaiti authorities have referred a Sudanese man to public prosecution for acquiring Kuwaiti citizenship in 1988 through deceit, according to Almajilis news portal.
Fraudulent Adoption Scheme
The man reportedly paid a Kuwaiti woman, now deceased, who falsely claimed he was a foundling she wished to adopt. This fabricated story allowed him to obtain Kuwaiti citizenship illegally.
Authorities are now working to revoke citizenship for the man and his children, stripping them of any associated rights and benefits.
Recent Crackdown On Citizenship Fraud
This case is just one of many uncovered in recent weeks as Kuwait tightens measures against citizenship fraud. Kuwaiti media has reported several cases where individuals obtained nationality through forgery and deceit.
In one high-profile case, a Kuwaiti court sentenced three Gulf nationals to 10 years in prison for forging Kuwaiti citizenship and illegally receiving KD500,000 ($1.6 million) in government salaries and benefits. The court also ordered the trio to return KD1 million to the state treasury, as reported by Al Qabas newspaper.
Protecting Kuwaiti National Identity
With a population of 4.9 million, where expatriates significantly outnumber Kuwaiti nationals, the country has ramped up efforts to preserve its national identity. Authorities have withdrawn citizenship from hundreds of individuals since March due to fraud or holding dual nationalities, which are prohibited under Kuwaiti law.
Public Involvement Encouraged
The Kuwaiti Interior Ministry has launched a hotline for the public to report cases of dual nationality or citizenship fraud. Whistleblowers are assured full confidentiality as the government continues its crackdown on unlawful citizenship cases.
This rigorous campaign highlights Kuwait’s commitment to safeguarding its resources and ensuring only rightful citizens benefit from the privileges of nationality.