Kuwait issues arrest warrants for 15 suspects in ‘Ya Hala Draws’ scandal

Investigators uncovered indications of forgery, bribery and abuse of official positions

Last updated: December 09, 2025 | 14:17

1 MIN READ

Kuwait issues arrest warrants for 15 suspects in ‘Ya Hala Draws’ scandal

IANS

Dubai: Kuwait’s Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for 15 men and women linked to the high-profile “Ya Hala Draws” case, ordering that all defendants be transferred to the Central Jail pending trial as investigations continue, Al Seyassah daily reported.

The case centres on allegations of widespread manipulation of raffle draws held as part of the Kuwait Shopping Festival, known as Ya Hala, which operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Security reports first raised suspicions of tampering, prompting a joint investigation by criminal detectives and the ministry.

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Investigators uncovered indications of forgery, bribery and abuse of official positions to steer valuable prizes towards selected individuals in return for financial benefits. A senior official in the raffle department and several collaborators were reportedly identified, along with an expatriate woman who is alleged to have received multiple vehicle prizes. She was arrested at Kuwait International Airport while attempting to leave the country.

Given the sensitivity of the matter and its potential impact on public trust in commercial promotions, the Public Prosecution had earlier ordered that inquiries be conducted confidentially and barred publication of case details until investigations were complete.

The wider probe into draw manipulation in Kuwait spans dozens of commercial raffles, substantial prize values and multiple defendants now facing charges including bribery, forgery, money laundering and the embezzlement of public funds.

Khitam Al AmirChief News Editor

With over 30 years of journalistic experience spanning from Jordan to the UAE, Khitam has spent the past 22 years reporting on national and regional news from Dubai, with a strong focus on the UAE, GCC and broader Arab affairs. As Chief News Editor, she brings extensive expertise in delivering breaking and engaging news to readers. Beginning her tenure as a translator, she advanced through roles as Senior Translator and Chief Translator before transitioning to editorial positions, culminating in her current leadership role. Her responsibilities encompass monitoring breaking news across the UAE and the broader Arab region, ensuring timely and accurate dissemination to the public. Born into a family of journalists, Khitam's passion for news was ignited early in life. A defining moment in her youth occurred in September 1985 when she had the opportunity to converse with the late British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher during her visit to a Palestinian refugee camp north of Amman. During this encounter, Khitam shared her family's experiences of displacement from their home in Palestine and their subsequent refuge in Jordan. This poignant interaction not only deepened her understanding of geopolitical issues but also solidified her commitment to pursuing a career in journalism, aiming to shed light on the stories of those affected by regional conflicts. Khitam’s commitment to accurate and timely reporting drives her to seek out news that interests readers, making her a trusted source for news on the UAE and the broader Gulf region.