Kuwait’s chief prosecutor has banned media reporting on a raffle manipulation inquiry to mitigate negative impacts on national interests. A video highlighted the issue, leading to the identification and arrest of multiple suspects involved in serious crimes, including forgery and bribery. Evidence has been seized, and financial investigations are ongoing.
Kuwait’s chief prosecutor has enacted a ban on media reporting concerning the investigations into a major raffle manipulation case that has caused public outcry. This measure is intended to prevent any “negative impact” from media coverage that could affect the inquiry or jeopardize national interests, according to the Kuwaiti public prosecution.
The prosecution emphasized that the ban is also designed to protect individuals and entities until proven guilty, ensuring fairness throughout the ongoing investigations. Updates will be provided to the media once the inquiry concludes, according to their statements.
The case came to public attention after a video surfaced online showing a suspect apparently orchestrating the manipulation of the raffle draw, identified as a Kuwaiti citizen in charge of the draws department at the Ministry of Commerce. It was revealed that this individual exploited his position to unlawfully control prize distributions for financial incentives.
Further investigations uncovered six individuals involved in substantial criminal activities, including forgery, bribery, and money laundering, which significantly harmed national interests. Arrest warrants have been issued for several suspects, including international warrants for those who left the country.
The search of the suspects’ residences yielded numerous luxury items and cash believed to be connected to the fraudulent activities. Significant evidence, including documents and electronic devices, was seized, pointing to manipulation within the raffle draws. Additionally, the prosecution has initiated a freeze on the suspects’ bank assets and has requested detailed transaction statements from currency exchange firms to trace their financial dealings.
In summary, Kuwait’s public prosecution has prioritized an investigation into a raffle manipulation scandal with measures aimed at safeguarding national interests. The media ban seeks to prevent premature exposure of details that could affect the inquiry. Multiple arrests have been made, revealing a network involved in serious criminal activities, and the prosecution is committed to ensuring justice and transparency in the ongoing investigation.
Original Source: gulfnews.com
