Kuwait Busts Human Trafficking Ring in Iqama Scam

Kuwait has arrested a four-member gang involved in human trafficking and facilitating illegal residency permits (iqama) for expatriates in exchange for money. This latest bust is part of the country's ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and illegal residency schemes.

The Interior Ministry revealed that the gang included a Kuwaiti man, two Egyptian expatriates, and a Chinese national. The suspects allegedly brought foreign workers into Kuwait, registering them under the sponsorship of Kuwaiti nationals in return for fees ranging from KD500 ($1,619) to KD1,200 per person.

232 Illegal Workers Registered Through 20 Companies

Investigations uncovered the involvement of 20 companies, with more than 232 workers illegally registered through them. These companies allegedly played a role in the illicit scheme, enabling the illegal registration of expatriates under false sponsorships.

Under Kuwait’s new residency law, enforced earlier this year, human trafficking is punishable by three to five years in prison and a maximum fine of KD10,000. The fine increases with the number of violations, and penalties double if a civil servant exploits their position to commit the crime.

Ongoing Crackdown on Human Trafficking

This is not the first time Kuwait has cracked down on human trafficking. Last month, a Kuwaiti court handed varying jail terms to 13 defendants involved in human trafficking, prostitution, and money laundering. The case was linked to operating illegal massage parlors.

The defendants included a Kuwaiti citizen and 12 expatriates. The court sentenced the Kuwaiti man to seven years in prison and imposed a fine of KD7,000. The expatriates, including an Egyptian employee and 11 Asian nationals, received five-year jail terms each and will be deported after serving their sentences.

Previous Iqama Scams Uncovered

In December, Kuwaiti authorities dismantled another human trafficking ring. The scheme, led by a Kuwaiti and a Pakistani national, involved illegally bringing workers into the country in exchange for money. The suspects charged KD500 per worker, registering them under a company’s sponsorship.

The investigation revealed that the implicated company had 119 illegal workers on its sponsorship list. The suspects, along with others accused of facilitating the crime, were arrested.

A Strong Stance Against Human Trafficking

Kuwait's ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking demonstrate a strong commitment to enforcing the law and protecting the rights of workers. The recent busts highlight the government’s zero-tolerance policy toward those exploiting vulnerable individuals for financial gain.

The crackdown also serves as a reminder to companies and individuals to adhere strictly to residency and employment laws, ensuring the safety and dignity of all workers in Kuwait.