Landmark ruling in ‘e-fraud’ case

03/02/2026

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 3: In a landmark ruling regarding a major case of electronic fraud and money laundering, the Criminal Court delivered mixed verdicts, acquitting several defendants while imposing severe penalties on others. The investigation exposed a sophisticated transnational organized criminal network.

This network systematically targeted citizens and expatriates, employing advanced fraudulent techniques and organized banking manipulation to obtain funds illegally. A notable outcome was the full acquittal of one defendant. This is a remarkable triumph for the defense, spearheaded by Attorney Mohammad Al-Rifai. His legal strategy focused on proving the lack of essential elements of the crime, the absence of criminal intent, and the failure of the Public Prosecution to produce conclusive evidence connecting his client to the criminal network or the disputed funds. The court accepted these compelling arguments, resulting in a favorable ruling.

Details of the case trace back to a victim receiving a phone call from an individual impersonating a bank employee, who defrauded her to steal money from her bank account. Probes unveiled the criminal organization’s method: exploiting bank accounts and SIM cards registered in others’ names – obtained for a fee – to transfer the illicit proceeds abroad and obscure their real origin. Following the announcement of the verdicts, the court mandated the immediate deportation of the convicted individuals upon the completion of their prison terms.

By Jaber Al-Hamoud Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff