Kuwait shuts 19 shops, arrests 26, removes makeshift markets in crackdown

Efforts underway to curb illegal businesses and unlicensed activities

Last updated: August 25, 2025 | 06:11

1 MIN READ

The Interior Ministry said the shuttered shops were operating without permits in violation of regulations set by the Ministry of Commerce and Kuwait Municipality. Illustrative image.

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Dubai: Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior has closed 19 shops and dismantled several makeshift markets in the districts of Jleeb Al Shuyoukh and Khaitan, while 26 expatriate violators were taken into custody, State-run news agency Kuna reported.

The operation, carried out by the Criminal Security Sector and the General Department of Criminal Investigation in coordination with several government agencies, was supervised directly by Sheikh Fahad Yousef Al Sabah, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.

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The sweeping campaign brought together the General Fire Force, Kuwait Municipality, the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, the Ministry of Public Works, and the Environment Public Authority in an effort to curb illegal businesses and unlicensed activities.

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The Interior Ministry said the shuttered shops were operating without permits in violation of regulations set by the Ministry of Commerce and Kuwait Municipality. The removal of unregulated street markets, it added, was part of a broader initiative to eliminate unlawful practices and restore order.

Sheikh Fahd stressed that tackling violations remains a top priority and warned that swift and deterrent measures would be taken against offenders. Authorities have instructed all agencies to intensify monitoring and enforcement. Authorities pledged to continue coordinated field campaigns on a regular basis as part of a strategy to bolster public security and safeguard the community.

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.