Kuwait Raid: 15 Workers Arrested, Illegal Shops Shut
A major enforcement operation in Kuwait's Farwaniya Governorate has resulted in the arrest of 15 foreign workers and the immediate closure of several unauthorized businesses.
Coordinated by security agencies and the Negative Phenomena Committee, the raids targeted illegal commercial activities being conducted within private residential properties. The operation aimed to restore order to residential zones and ensure public health standards are met.
Violations of Residential Laws
The crackdown focused on individuals violating Article 20, which strictly prohibits running commercial enterprises out of private residential homes. The 15 arrested workers are currently undergoing deportation procedures.
During the sweep, authorities successfully shut down the following unauthorized establishments:
- Four unauthorized grocery stores
- One illegal tailoring shop
In addition to commercial violations, officials identified several properties breaching "Azab Sakan" regulations. These specific rules prohibit the housing of bachelor workers in residential areas designated for families.
Food Safety and Utility Crackdown
The raid also uncovered significant public health risks. Officials seized various tobacco products and destroyed large quantities of expired food items, including frozen meat and fish, which were deemed unfit for human consumption.
The Public Authority for Food and Nutrition (PAFN) oversaw the destruction of the spoiled goods, while the Kuwait Municipality issued formal reports and warnings to the offending parties. To ensure strict compliance, the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Renewable Energy took the step of disconnecting power supplies to the violating premises.
Ongoing Enforcement Campaign
This operation is part of a wider, ongoing enforcement campaign by Kuwaiti authorities to eliminate unauthorized businesses and housing violations. Authorities have indicated that these sweeps will continue across several key areas, including:
- Farwaniya
- Khaitan
- Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh