Al-Sameet: Juvenile crimes dropped by 48% in the first half of 2026
Justice Minister and Advisor Nasser Yousef Al-Samait announced that statistics from the Ministry of Justice showed 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. Al-Samait added that juvenile crimes have continued to decline for the second consecutive year, noting that the reduction rate reached 52% compared to the first half of 2024, which recorded 1,665 cases. He clarified that the decline included several prominent cases registered with the Juvenile Prosecution, most notably traffic cases, which fell by 63%, from 1,048 cases in the first half of 2025 to 383 cases in the same period of 2026. Assault cases also decreased by 32%.
Al-Samait pointed out that this decline coincided with a legislative path pursued by the government to enhance deterrence and prevention in various crimes related to juveniles, through a package of amendments targeting the most dangerous behaviors and those with the greatest impact on the safety of individuals and society. These reforms included the issuance of the new Traffic Law, the imposition of stricter penalties for serious traffic violations, and harsher punishments for murder and negligent injury. Additionally, a new law to combat drugs and psychotropic substances was enacted, alongside the criminalization of possessing or carrying white weapons without legitimate justification in public places, and the imposition of stricter penalties when such weapons are used in assaults or to terrorize others.
The legislative factor is considered one of the important elements to take into account when interpreting the decline indicators, alongside other preventive and social factors. Al-Samait 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-Samait emphasized the continued coordination among relevant authorities to enhance preventive and awareness efforts and to develop protection, care, and rehabilitation programs. He stressed that the protection of youth and safeguarding their rights is a shared responsibility. He added that the Ministry of Justice, in cooperation with the Public Prosecution, continues to monitor statistical indicators, analyze the causes of juvenile delinquency, and measure the impact of relevant legislative developments, in order to reduce juvenile crimes and protect youth, thereby preserving the family and ensuring the security and stability of society.
