KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health yesterday condemned efforts to discredit its services and malign the integrity of its staff.  A statement issued by the ministry urged citizens and residents not to pay heed to attempts to undermine public confidence in the country's healthcare services.  The statement noted that the ministry "reserves the right to mount legal action against all those involved in sharing untrue and baseless information that is detrimental to its reputation". The ministry added that it is open to all suggestions and complaints regarding the quality of healthcare provided in the state.

Earlier yesterday, a ministry official said that the ministry was handling with "full urgency and concern" alleged social media reports of a foreign national posing as a doctor. The ministry has made contacts with several bodies in order to gather information before issuing a statement regarding the rumors, ministry spokesman Ahmad Al-Shatti said in a statement. Shatti added that those revealed to have been involved in the incident and allowing it to take place will face legal charges.

Separately, the Interior Ministry's Relations and Security Information Department said the traffic department has begun operating new traffic cameras on major roads, including the Fifth Ring Road near Avenues mall, Qurtuba; Fourth Ring Road near Surra; and King Fahd Road near Bayan Palace. It said the new cameras monitor speeding in all lanes in both directions, including the emergency lanes. - Agencies