25/03/2025
25/03/2025

Meanwhile, the Central Bank of Kuwait has instructed all local banks to postpone upcoming draws to ensure full transparency and submit their results for review.
Informed sources revealed that, based on preliminary findings, the Ministry of Commerce has identified eight individuals of various nationalities suspected of involvement in fraudulent activities. Additionally, approximately 15 different draws are believed to have been manipulated, with prizes awarded to unqualified recipients. The sources indicated that the total value of the suspicious prizes exceeds KWD 250,000, all of which pertain to car giveaways.
The sources emphasized that the ministry has launched a regulatory inspection of all raffle records dating back to 2022—the period most susceptible to manipulation, as indicated by defendants' confessions. They also highlighted ongoing coordination between the Ministry of Commerce, the Central Bank, and other regulatory bodies to develop a more transparent and controlled mechanism. This new framework aims to safeguard the integrity of future prize draws, regardless of their value or scale.
In a related move, the Governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait, Basel Al-Haroun, issued a circular directing all local banks to suspend upcoming draws pending the outcome of the evaluation process. He stressed the importance of ensuring a fair and secure environment to protect customers' rights.
Al-Haroun stated, "Concerning prize draws organized by some banks for customers holding specific draw accounts, and given the time that has passed since these products were introduced, it has become necessary to reassess them. This review will ensure the highest level of transparency, clarify their requirements, and verify their proper operation—all within the framework of sound governance."