Kuwait’s Biometric System Uncovers Forged Identities

Kuwait has made a big leap in border security with the introduction of biometric fingerprinting, leading to the discovery of hundreds of forged identity cases among expats. This technological advancement is proving to be a game-changer, especially when it comes to tracking down individuals who had previously been deported but managed to re-enter the country under false identities.

How Biometric Fingerprinting Is Exposing Forged Identities

Biometric fingerprinting has helped authorities uncover numerous cases where deported individuals returned to Kuwait using forged passports and new names. In many instances, these individuals, primarily domestic workers and drivers from Asian countries, had been deported years ago—some more than 20 years ago. The only recognizable feature often matching the original deportee was a photo on the passport, making it nearly impossible to identify them using older methods.

Previously, citizens had been able to renew the residency permits of these workers without issue, allowing them to live and travel freely. But with the advent of biometric fingerprinting, discrepancies in records became clear, and authorities took immediate action. They blocked the records of these workers and uncovered that their residency had never been properly renewed after their deportation.

The Role of Kuwait’s Criminal Evidence Department

A major breakthrough in this process came from the General Department of Criminal Evidence and Identity Investigation. Thanks to their rigorous quality control and the application of biometric fingerprinting, they were able to match fingerprints and identify violators. In some cases, the criminals had undergone extreme measures, such as surgical procedures to alter their fingerprints, burning or disfiguring their hands to erase any trace of their original prints.

Some even went as far as changing their nationality, obtaining new passports, and placing their original photo on the fake documents. This manipulation of identity went undetected for years due to the limitations of older fingerprint systems.

Deportation for Those Caught Using Fake Identities

The new biometric fingerprinting system ensures that anyone caught with a falsified identity will face serious consequences. Regardless of whether their residency status has been regularly renewed, any violator whose true identity is uncovered through the system will be deported. There are no exceptions for those found guilty of using fraudulent methods to re-enter the country.

 

 

 

 

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Final Thoughts on Kuwait’s Biometric Breakthrough

Kuwait's implementation of biometric fingerprinting has proven to be a powerful tool in tackling identity fraud. By uncovering hundreds of forged identities and blocking residency renewals, the country is taking major steps in enhancing security and maintaining the integrity of its immigration system. As authorities continue to tighten controls, anyone attempting to manipulate their identity will now face deportation—no exceptions.