Kuwait Arrests 67 in Crackdown on Illicit Alcohol After 23 Deaths

Описание: Kuwaiti authorities have arrested 67 individuals linked to the production and distribution of illegal alcoholic drinks—products blamed for 23 deaths in recent days, according to a statement from the Interior Ministry. The operation also led to the shutdown of six operational factories and another four facilities that had not yet begun production, located in both residential and industrial zones.

The Health Ministry confirmed that the number of confirmed methanol poisoning cases has surged to 160, with the deceased primarily among Asian nationals. The dangers of methanol—a toxic alcohol that can cause blindness, organ failure, and death—are particularly acute in illicit drinks lacking proper quality controls.

Officials also disclosed that a Bangladeshi national, identified as the leader of the criminal operation, was taken into custody. In addition, a Nepali suspect provided authorities with details on how the methanol-based drinks were produced and distributed.

Kuwait enforces a total ban on both the import and domestic production of alcoholic beverages. Nonetheless, underground operations persist, posing severe risks due to unregulated environments and toxic contents. This crackdown marks a major enforcement action to curb the lethal toll of spurious alcohol in the country.

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SOURCES & REFERENCES:
Reuters – Kuwait arrests 67 over illegal alcohol production after 23 deaths