KUWAIT CITY, July 26: The Criminal Court has set the session of July 30 for the trial of a citizen, identified only as “A.M.”, who is accused of offending a segment of Kuwaiti society and violating the National Unity Law. The defendant was referred to court following investigations by the Public Prosecution into a complaint filed against him over statements attributed to him, which were deemed offensive and damaging to the social fabric, in violation of Law No. 19/2012 on the Protection of National Unity. The court will study the charges to determine whether the defendant’s actions constitute punishable offenses under the law. There have been growing public calls for strict enforcement of the law to deter anyone who incites sedition or threatens social cohesion.

By Jaber Al-Hamoud
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff

KUWAIT CITY, July 26: Kuwait police have referred four individuals to the General Department of Narcotics after they were arrested in three separate locations for possession of narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales, a security source revealed.

Pouches of drugs hidden beneath parked car

The first incident took place in the Omariya area, where patrol officers noticed two individuals behaving suspiciously, attempting to hide bags beneath parked cars. Upon seeing the officers, the suspects fled on foot but were quickly apprehended. Both were identified as Asian nationals. A search revealed 26 packets of narcotics in their possession. During initial questioning, the suspects admitted to selling drugs to youth, receiving payments through online links. Deliveries were made by concealing the drugs under parked cars and sending the location via mobile phone.

(Left) Crystal meth pouch and other drugs (Right) Cash and drugs

The second arrest occurred in Abu Al-Hasaniya, when officers stopped a swerving vehicle. The driver, a 28-year-old Kuwaiti citizen with a criminal record and an outstanding warrant related to drug offenses, was found in possession of two packets of narcotics, drug paraphernalia, and approximately KD 1,730 in cash.

The third arrest was in Saad Al-Abdullah City, following a traffic accident report. One of the injured individuals was found to be under the influence. A search revealed two packets—one containing the drug “crystal meth” and the other a chemical substance—along with drug paraphernalia.

All suspects have been handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation.

KUWAIT CITY, July 25: In a sweeping crackdown on illegal pharmaceutical practices, Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry, in coordination with the Ministry of Health, has shut down 20 pharmacies across multiple governorates for serious regulatory violations.

The move comes as part of an ongoing effort to clean up the pharmaceutical sector and follows a similar campaign in 2023 that led to the closure of 60 pharmacies. Those establishments were found to be operated or managed by unauthorized third parties, a direct breach of national healthcare regulations. The Ministry’s actions were later upheld by the Court of Cassation, affirming the legality of revoking their licenses and reinforcing the government’s zero-tolerance stance.

The latest round of inspections was personally overseen by the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Khalifa Al-Ajeel, and the Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi. Officials emphasized that the campaign reflects high-level ministerial directives aimed at tightening oversight, eliminating malpractice, and safeguarding public health. “We will continue to intensify field campaigns and apply the law without exception,” said a senior government source, citing “clear and alarming indicators” found during the raids.

A joint task force from both ministries conducted the inspections, swiftly shutting down the non-compliant pharmacies. Legal action was initiated in multiple cases, including the revocation of operating licenses and referrals to the Public Prosecution for criminal and commercial violations.

The joint effort marks a critical component of the government’s broader initiative to uphold the rule of law and restore integrity to the healthcare sector. Officials confirmed that similar surprise inspections will continue in the coming weeks, with no leniency for violators.

In a firm message to stakeholders, the Ministry of Commerce urged all pharmacy owners and investors to comply fully with existing laws and licensing terms. “Ensuring the availability of safe, legal, and trustworthy healthcare services is not just a professional requirement — it’s a national priority,” the Ministry declared.

This uncompromising approach reflects Kuwait’s commitment to protecting both the health of its citizens and the credibility of its pharmaceutical industry.