Juvenile Crimes Decline for Second Consecutive Year
Justice Minister and Advisor Nasser Al-Sumait announced a 48% decline in juvenile crimes during the first half of 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, with the number of cases dropping from 1,523 to 795. Advisor Al-Sumait stated that juvenile crimes have continued to decline for the second consecutive year, marking a 52% decrease compared to the first half of 2024, which saw 1,665 cases recorded.
He clarified that the decline included several prominent cases registered with the Juvenile Prosecution, most notably traffic-related cases, which fell by 63%, from 1,048 cases in the first half of 2025 to 383 cases during the same period in 2026. Assault cases also decreased by 32%.
He noted that this decline coincided with a legislative path adopted by the government to enhance deterrence and prevention in various crimes involving juveniles, through a package of amendments targeting the most dangerous behaviors and those with the greatest impact on individual and societal safety. These reforms included the issuance of a new Traffic Law, stricter penalties for serious traffic violations, harsher punishments for murder and negligent injury, the enactment of a new law combating drugs and psychotropic substances, and the criminalization of possessing or carrying white weapons without legitimate justification in public places, along with increased penalties when such weapons are used in assaults or to terrorize others.
The Minister of Justice explained that legislative factors are among the important elements considered when interpreting the downward trends in juvenile crime indicators, alongside other preventive and social factors. He praised the efforts of the Ministry of Interior in preventing and combating juvenile crimes, and the Ministry of Social Affairs in caring for and rehabilitating juveniles. He also commended the role of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs and the Ministry of Health in protecting children from violence and abuse and providing them with care and support.
Al-Sumait affirmed the continued coordination among relevant authorities to enhance preventive and awareness-raising efforts, and to develop protection, care, and rehabilitation programs. He emphasized that protecting the youth and safeguarding their rights is a shared responsibility.
He noted that the Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with the Public Prosecution, continues to monitor statistical indicators, analyze the causes of juvenile delinquency, and assess the impact of relevant legislative developments to reduce juvenile crimes and protect the youth, thereby preserving the family and ensuring the security and stability of society.
