Kathmandu, August 18
The death toll of Nepalis in Kuwait from the consumption of toxic liquor has risen to 12, according to the Embassy of Nepal in Kuwait. Around 30 others are still undergoing treatment at various hospitals.
The incident, which occurred last week after the intake of illegally produced alcohol laced with the deadly chemical methanol, has affected more than 160 people. Kuwait’s Ministry of Health confirmed that so far 23 migrant workers from different countries have died.
In response, Kuwait’s Ministry of Internal Affairs launched a nationwide crackdown, arresting 67 people involved in the production and sale of illegal alcohol, including several Nepalis, Indians, and a Bangladeshi national. Authorities also seized six illegal liquor factories operating in residential and industrial areas.
Kuwaiti media reported that the main suspects could face murder charges. Police raids have also targeted individuals violating residency and labour laws, resulting in 258 additional arrests across the country.
Security officials confirmed that all migrant workers hospitalised after consuming the toxic alcohol will be deported once their treatment is completed. They will also face entry bans to Kuwait in the future. Alcohol production, sale, and consumption are strictly prohibited in Kuwait, and confirmed consumption leads to deportation.
The Nepali community, numbering around 160,000 in Kuwait, has expressed deep concern over the reputational damage caused by the incident. The Nepali Embassy and the Non-Resident Nepali Association (NRNA) in Kuwait have urged citizens to refrain from involvement in illegal activities such as alcohol production, sale, and consumption.
According to the Embassy, more than half of the Nepalis currently serving prison terms in Kuwait are behind bars for cases related to alcohol and drugs.
