Kuwait’s strict biometric fingerprinting system has revealed hundreds of cases involving fake deportees, especially among domestic workers and drivers. Security sources confirmed that fingerprinting exposed individuals whose fingerprints matched those of individuals deported years ago—some over 20 years ago.
The investigation uncovered that many wanted or previously deported individuals had returned to Kuwait using forged passports under different names. In many instances, the only matching feature was the photo on the passport. The majority of these individuals were of Asian nationalities.
These violations came to light thanks to the comprehensive biometric fingerprinting system, which was implemented by the Ministry of Interior and applied to most citizens and residents. The General Department of Criminal Evidence carried out meticulous quality control measures, revealing that deported individuals had altered their identities. Some underwent surgeries to change their fingerprints, while others burned or disfigured their hands to prevent recognition. Others resorted to using altered passports, with only their real photo on the new documents.
Security sources further explained that many citizens had been renewing their domestic workers’ residencies as usual, with these workers entering Kuwait and traveling on vacation without any issues. However, the implementation of biometric fingerprinting led to the discovery that these workers had violated regulations, resulting in a block on their files and their deportation.
The sources emphasized that any individual whose identity is uncovered through biometric fingerprinting will be deported, regardless of whether their residency is valid or regularly renewed over the years.
