KUWAIT CITY, Feb 13: The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) intends to implement a ban on the sale and distribution of “balloons” and “water pistols” an foam sprayers” across all commercial outlets in Kuwait, reports Al-Qabas daily. The Al-Qabas daily has learned that this ban will encompass cooperative societies, supermarkets, and stores, with signifi cant penalties imposed on violators, including closure of the point of sale and legal prosecution, reports Al-Qabas daily. According to informed sources, the anticipated decision from the ministry will enforce the ban for a specifi c period, including February. This action follows numerous complaints regarding the misuse of balloons, pistols, and water sprayers during national holiday celebrations.

The sources further revealed that the Ministry of Commerce has decided to prohibit the sale of balloons and water pistols based on pertinent data, which has been detailed as under:
■ The huge annual waste of water, specifically during February 25 and 26.
■ The phenomenon of using balloons and water sprinklers causes an increase in car accidents and damage to other people’s property.
■ The Ministry of Health annually records a large number of injuries to the face and eyes due to the injured being thrown into balloons from water pistols filled with liquids.
■ The Ministry of Interior records a large number of cases of physical assault during the holiday period, which are sparked by throwing balloons and throwing water.