KUWAIT: National Council for Culture Arts and Literature (NCCAL) General Secretary Dr Essa Al-Ansari affirmed Monday that the council is observing its duty in protecting the archeological sites of Kuwait, denying allegations of sites in Failaka being tampered with. This came in press statement in response to social media claims about foreign visitors looting sites on Failaka Island.

Ansari explained that the sites are surrounded by a fence, security checkpoints, and are equipped with surveillance cameras, adding that as a security measure, visitors' identities are checked prior to entry. He also indicated that the Kuwaiti-French and Kuwaiti-Danish excavating teams are working under the supervision of the council in certain sites while other locations are monitored round the clock with periodic reports submitted if necessary.

Ansari touched on the council's collaboration with the customs department and the ongoing coordination between the two to combat artifact smuggling, and maintain security of archeological sites. He added that one must seek precision prior to sharing news, and stated that NCCAL is looking forward to working with experts in what serves these national treasures and their boosts historical value. - KUNA