Al-Sameet: Decline in 'Cases' in the first half of 2026

Justice Minister and Legal Advisor Nasser Al-Sameet announced that the Ministry’s statistics on cases registered before the Public Prosecution showed a 45.5 percent decline in kidnapping cases during the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, with the total number of cases dropping from 99 to 54. Crimes against honor and reputation also fell by 28 percent, from 168 cases to 121.

Speaking to KUNA on Sunday, Al-Sameet said the statistics revealed a decrease in several serious crimes related to violations of liberty and honor. Crimes of indecent assault by force, threat, or deception dropped by 50 percent, from 76 cases to 38. He added that rape by force declined by 26.3 percent, and indecent assault of a person lacking willpower fell by 30 percent. Additionally, cases of child abduction by a person with custody rights decreased by 45.3 percent, and kidnappings committed with intent to cause harm dropped by 64.3 percent.

He clarified that these indicators coincide with ongoing efforts to develop the penal system and strengthen legal protection for society. Among the key legislative reforms in this regard was the repeal of Article 182 of the Penal Code, which had previously allowed for non-punishment of a kidnapper if he married the victim in a lawful marriage with the guardian’s consent and the guardian requested leniency. This legal excuse has now been abolished, thereby enhancing accountability for perpetrators of such crimes.

He noted that the new Law on Protection from Domestic Violence has strengthened penal protection for groups most vulnerable to abuse. The law prohibits withdrawal of complaints, settlement with the offender, or pardon in cases of sexual assault and domestic violence crimes committed against children, persons lacking legal capacity, or those with diminished capacity, as well as violence committed by children against one of their parents.

The Minister of Justice affirmed that the government continues to implement the National Plan for updating the legislative system and reviewing penal and procedural laws to enhance the protection of rights and freedoms, and to consolidate security and the rule of law.