UAE Hands Over Fugitive in KD433,000 Money Laundering Case to Kuwait

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have handed over an Indian fugitive wanted in Kuwait in connection with a money laundering case involving more than KD433,000 linked to an organised alcohol smuggling network.

According to Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior of Kuwait, the arrest and extradition were carried out through joint security cooperation between Kuwaiti authorities and the UAE, in coordination with the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).

The ministry said the operation was conducted through direct coordination between the General Department of Criminal Police and Interpol offices in both countries under the supervision of the Public Prosecution.

The suspect was handed over to Kuwaiti authorities at Kuwait International Airport following coordinated intelligence and security efforts involving the Criminal Security Office in Dubai.

Authorities said the fugitive had previously been sentenced to 10 years in prison with hard labour, in addition to deportation after serving the sentence and confiscation of illegally obtained funds.

Investigations revealed that the case involved an organised criminal network engaged in illegal alcohol trading and complex financial operations aimed at concealing the origins of illicit proceeds through money laundering activities.

Officials said the network used multiple individuals and companies to conduct hundreds of financial transactions, including transfers through exchange houses and overseas accounts.

The ministry added that the suspect has been referred to the relevant authorities in Kuwait to complete legal procedures.