Kuwait intends to create a DNA database of the country’s residents – all 4 million of them – under a new law that aims to curb terrorist attacks, according to Arabian Business .
This decision comes in light of an ISIS-linked bomb attack targeting Imam al-Sadeq Mosque during Friday prayers, killing 27 people and injuring 200 . After declaring war on Islamist militants, the government has since approved emergency funding of $400 million dollars to the Interior Ministry, which will oversee the collection plan, in an effort to root out potential terrorist cells.
“We have approved the DNA testing law and approved the additional funding. We are prepared to approve anything needed to boost security measures in the country,” MP Jamal Al Omar told Arabian Business.
Those who refuse to give a sample may face a year in jail and a fine of $33,000 (10,000 dinar). If a sample is found to be fake, the perpetrator would serve a seven-year jail sentence.
Following the terrorist attack, authorities have cracked down on potential supporters of ISIS, arresting 90 people, including two police officers. Security forces reportedly found ISIS flags, slogans, and maps as well as weapons and ammunition in a raid on the home of two suspects.