Kuwait’s Criminal Investigation Department arrested a Filipina domestic worker on Thursday, 26 December, for allegedly causing the death of an 18-month-old child in Sabah Al-Salem.

According to the Kuwaiti Council, the overseas Filipino worker (OFW) is accused of placing the toddler inside a washing machine and turning it on in the family’s home. Reports indicate that the child’s parents rushed to their son upon hearing his screams. Despite being immediately brought to Jaber Hospital, the child was pronounced dead on arrival.

Initial reports suggest the Filipina admitted to the crime, reportedly saying she acted out of frustration because the child was “annoying her.” The worker, whose identity has not been disclosed, remains in custody pending further investigation by Kuwaiti authorities.

In response to the incident, the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait issued a statement expressing shock and sadness over the tragedy.

"The Philippine Embassy in Kuwait is shocked and deeply saddened by the tragic incident of a Filipino domestic worker involved in the death of a Kuwaiti child in her employer’s household. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the bereaved family during this difficult time," the statement read.

The Embassy assured the public of its cooperation with Kuwaiti authorities and reiterated its commitment to providing legal assistance to the detained worker, in line with Kuwaiti laws and the Embassy’s mandate.

“This isolated incident does not reflect the character of Filipinos and the Filipino community in Kuwait, who are recognized for their hard work, reliability, and positive contribution to society,” the statement emphasized.

The Philippines' Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) also announced on Friday, 27 December, that legal support will be extended to the worker.

Separate Incident in Saudi Arabia

In another case involving an overseas Filipino worker, a video surfaced on 23 December showing a male OFW in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia allegedly robbing a Pakistani driver. The incident, caught on the vehicle’s dash cam, captured the driver struggling to resist as the Filipino appeared to take his money.

The individual was identified as Filipino after speaking a sentence in the Filipino language during the incident. The footage has sparked online discussions, but Philippine authorities have yet to issue an official statement regarding the case.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article has been updated with the official statement from the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait