Fraud Alert: Benefits Of 60 Dead Citizens Collected By Caregivers In Kuwait
Kuwaiti authorities have launched a sweeping investigation into the improper collection of government disability benefits on behalf of deceased citizens, in what is shaping up to be one of the country's most significant public welfare fraud cases in recent years.
According to the Public Authority for Persons with Disabilities, around 60 deceased individuals were still receiving monthly disability allowances long after their deaths — payments that were allegedly collected by their caregivers, who failed to report the deaths to the authorities.
The discrepancy came to light during routine data sharing between the Civil Information Authority and the disability agency. A cross-check of records revealed that benefits had continued to be deposited into bank accounts linked to the deceased, in violation of government regulations. Officials have since suspended the disbursement of allowances and compiled a list of affected individuals, covering a range of disabilities from moderate to severe. The total value of the improperly issued payments is currently being calculated.
The Ministry of Health has been contacted to verify death certificates and match them to the timeline of benefit disbursements. This will allow the authorities to determine how much was unduly paid and initiate recovery procedures.
According to sources familiar with the matter, any wrongful payments will be reclaimed in accordance with standard procedures — either as a lump sum for smaller amounts or through instalments in more substantial cases. Legal proceedings are expected to follow, with authorities preparing to hold caregivers accountable for failing to notify the state in a timely manner. The incident has sparked public concern over the effectiveness of oversight in Kuwait's social welfare system and has prompted calls for tighter controls and digital verification mechanisms.
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