Kuwait- The Kuwaiti security apparatus announced on Thursday increased security measures as part of their efforts to capture 16 terrorist suspects belonging to Al-Abdali terror cell who fled to Iran by sea in speedboats one month ago.

Additional police patrols and checkpoints were set up in the streets of the capital while police members were seen checking identity cards of passersby in search of the remnants.

A Kuwaiti source told Asharq Al-Awsat that the security apparatus had increased its readiness to 100 percent and prevented all breaks and holidays until further notice.

The source added: “These measures are taken to arrest Abdali cell suspects.”

On Thursday, the Interior Ministry urged citizens to cooperate with security personnel and carry their IDs and personal documents as part of the measures taken to maintain the country’s security and people’s safety, Kuwait’s official news agency KUNA said.

The ministry also called on all people to refrain from circulating inaccurate information, adding that it was ready to respond to any query.

The security measures taken by the ministry cover the state’s six governorates.

“The ministry would forge ahead with shouldering its responsibilities and carrying out its duties in accordance with a comprehensive security plan to which all ministry departments are contributing,” it said.

On July 20, the Kuwaiti Foreign Ministry summoned Iran’s ambassador Alireza Enayati to inform him about its decision to expel 15 Iranian diplomats and close down the Iranian cultural mission with other affiliated offices in the country after the 16 terrorist suspects belonging to Abdali terror cell escaped to Iran.

According to information provided by Kuwait’s Interior Minister, the 16 terrorist suspects were still inside the country.