Al-Awadi: Decrease in juvenile cases compared to 2025
An officer from the Juvenile Protection Department confirmed a decrease in cases compared to 2025, with a focus on coordination regarding cybercrimes.
Translated by Qiyas from الأنباء — Original source
First Lieutenant Abdullah Al-Awadi, an officer in the Juvenile Protection Department of the General Directorate of Criminal Investigations, affirmed that the Juvenile Protection Department plays a vital role in safeguarding children and juveniles and following up on cases involving them. He noted that a juvenile is defined as any male or female under the age of 18, and that their protection is a shared responsibility among families, security institutions, and educational and social organizations.
In an interview with Kuwait Radio, Al-Awadi explained that the department is responsible for following up on juvenile-related cases, conducting investigations, gathering evidence, and implementing relevant judgments and decisions. It also coordinates with social care centers affiliated with the Ministry of Social Affairs, in accordance with the law. He emphasized that the department’s role extends beyond handling cases after they occur, encompassing prevention, awareness, and early intervention to enhance the security and psychological and social stability of children.
He added that the department holds meetings throughout the year with various government and civil society entities to coordinate efforts and exchange expertise. Additionally, it intensifies awareness lectures in schools to raise awareness among students and highlight key behaviors and risks that may threaten their safety and future.
Al-Awadi pointed out that these awareness lectures cover several important topics, including bullying, cyber offenses, misuse of mobile phones and smart devices, drug-related issues, and other behaviors that may affect children. He noted the department’s cooperation with various government and civil society entities in organizing exhibitions and events related to children, as well as its commitment to developing the skills of its staff through specialized training courses.
Al-Awadi stressed that the doors of the Juvenile Protection Department are open to everyone, urging the public to save the hotline number 25589535, which operates 24/7 to receive reports and facilitate communication with the department.
Regarding cybercrimes and violations related to technology use, he clarified that there is coordination and communication between the Juvenile Protection Department and the Cybercrime Department, as the latter is the competent authority for technical aspects concerning mobile phones and smart devices. Cases involving a juvenile or child as one of the parties fall under the jurisdiction of the Juvenile Protection Department in coordination with the Cybercrime Department. Once a case is referred to the department, the necessary procedures are completed and referred to the competent authorities.
Al-Awadi emphasized the importance of the family’s role in protecting, monitoring, and educating children about potential risks. He addressed parents, affirming that children are a trust that must be preserved and cared for, particularly in cases of family disputes and divorce. He stressed the necessity of not involving children in parental conflicts or burdening them with their consequences, due to the potential psychological impact on them.
He called on parents to monitor their children, pay attention to their surrounding environment, and observe any changes in their behavior. He also urged them to monitor their use of smartphones, electronic devices, and applications on social media, as this contributes to protecting them from risks and enhancing their psychological and social well-being.
From a legal perspective, Al-Awadi clarified that a juvenile’s responsibility is determined according to the law regarding the acts committed, and that procedures vary depending on the nature of the act and legal provisions. He emphasized the importance of educating children and parents about legal responsibility and the consequences of violating legal provisions.
Al-Awadi revealed a decline in the number of juvenile cases compared to 2025, emphasizing the importance of continuing awareness efforts and strengthening cooperation between families and relevant institutions to protect children and curb behaviors that could threaten their future.
