Minister of Justice: Juvenile crimes drop by 48 percent in the first half of 2026

Justice Minister and Advisor Nasser Al-Sameet announced that juvenile crime in Kuwait declined by 48% during the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year, with the number of cases dropping from 1,523 to 795. Speaking to the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al-Sameet stated that juvenile crimes continued their downward trend for the second consecutive year, recording 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 this year. Assault cases also decreased by 32%.

The Minister of Justice attributed the decline to a range of factors, including legislation and measures aimed at enhancing deterrence and preventing juvenile-related crimes. He pointed to the new Traffic Law and the imposition of stricter penalties for serious traffic violations, alongside amendments and legislation covering crimes such as murder, negligent injury, drug and psychotropic substance trafficking, and the possession of white weapons in public places without legitimate justification.

Al-Sameet emphasized that legislative factors represent one of the key elements when analyzing indicators of the decline in juvenile crimes, alongside preventive and social factors. He noted the continued coordination among relevant authorities to develop protection, care, and rehabilitation programs.

He further highlighted 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, with the aim of reducing crime, protecting youth, and strengthening societal stability.