KUWAIT: The ministry of interior, represented by the criminal security sector, announced the arrest of a Kuwaiti citizen following confidential information about his involvement in managing 16 fake social media accounts used to spread rumors and insult the dignity of numerous citizens in exchange for financial payments.
In a press statement, the ministry said that specialized security teams identified the suspect’s identity, monitored his daily movements, place of residence and means of transportation immediately after receiving the information. It added that the suspect was apprehended at a shopping mall, in coordination with the mall’s management, after obtaining a warrant from the public prosecution. He was accompanied by two of his friends at the time of the arrest.
The ministry stated that upon confrontation with the findings of the investigation, the suspect confessed to managing several fake accounts used to publish false news, spread malicious rumors and insult citizens. It further reported that several mobile phones used to manage the accounts were seized, and a search of his residence resulted in the confiscation of another phone, in addition to a quantity of narcotic substances, psychotropic drugs and imported liquor bottles.
The suspect admitted to communicating and collaborating with an individual holding the nationality of a Caribbean country who resides outside Kuwait. Together, they managed the fake accounts in exchange for financial compensation. Investigations revealed that the suspect was already subject to a three-year enforceable prison sentence in Criminal investigation case no. (2016/511) on charges of “threatening”.
The ministry affirmed its continued vigorous efforts to confront such criminal acts aimed at undermining security and stability, stressing that it will not hesitate to take firm legal action against anyone who attempts to disrupt public order, referring them to the public prosecution to face justice. The ministry also warned the public about the dangers of following rumors and unverified news circulated on social media platforms, urging everyone to seek information from official sources. It emphasized that it spares no effort in safeguarding the security and stability of society. – KUNA
