Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has warned citizens and residents against illegal mobile phone and telecommunications transactions, cautioning that involvement in suspicious deals could lead to legal action.
The ministry urged the public to avoid schemes involving the resale of SIM cards, mobile phones and deferred-payment telecommunications contracts. Such practices could be exploited for fraud and money laundering, exposing participants to potential criminal liability.
According to the ministry, some schemes promise customers immediate cash in exchange for purchasing devices or equipment at prices below their market value. Discounts may reach 40%, with the stated value of the goods allegedly used to disguise money transfers and facilitate financial crimes.
The ministry stressed that these activities violate applicable laws and regulations and could result in criminal prosecution and judicial proceedings. It urged residents to exercise caution when approached with offers involving discounted devices in exchange for cash.
The ministry said it would continue coordinating with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Communications and Information Technology Regulatory Authority to monitor suspicious online accounts and commercial outlets, identify those responsible and take appropriate legal action.
Possible enforcement measures include withdrawing or cancelling commercial licences, administratively closing businesses found to be in violation and referring those involved to the competent authorities for further proceedings.
