File Photo: Building in Mangaf where fire claimed the lives of 50 expats

KUWAIT CITY: The Court of Cassation for Misdemeanors has ruled to suspend the execution of a one-year prison sentence for a Kuwaiti citizen and two expatriates involved in the case of the Mangaf fire, in which 50 individuals on June 12, 2024 lost their lives. The suspension period is set for one year.

Earlier, the Misdemeanor Appeals Court had reviewed the sentences of the defendants and made significant amendments. Some defendants had their prison terms reduced to one year with labor and execution, down from three years, while three other defendants were sentenced to three years in prison with labor and execution on charges of manslaughter. Additional defendants received one-year sentences with labor and execution for perjury, and four were sentenced to one year with labor and execution for concealing persons wanted by the authorities.

The Public Prosecution had originally charged the defendants with multiple offenses, including the accidental killing of 50 individuals (46 Indians, 3 Filipinos and 1 Nepali), perjury, assisting fugitives, accidental injury, and negligence.

The Court of Cassation’s decision to suspend part of the sentences highlights the ongoing judicial review in the aftermath of the tragic Mangaf fire, while ensuring accountability for all involved.