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- Kuwait has launched a crackdown on illegal cryptocurrency mining.
- The coordinated operation targeted residential properties suspected of being used as unauthorized crypto-mining sites.
- Some suspects have been released on bail of 500 Kuwaiti dinars.
Kuwait has initiated a comprehensive campaign against illicit cryptocurrency mining. Authorities say around 60 people are currently under investigation, with expectations that additional individuals will face legal action in the coming weeks.
This effort follows a major security operation aimed at stopping unlicensed electricity use for mining, which officials say placed heavy strain on the national power grid and threatened public infrastructure.
The raids were carried out last Friday.
Investigators focused on residential properties believed to have been converted into illegal mining centers.
According to the Kuwaiti Cabinet, the raids form part of an ongoing nationwide initiative to combat financial crime, protect the energy sector from unauthorized consumption, and safeguard public safety.
Officials noted that illegal mining operations typically consume large amounts of electricity, causing grid overloads, blackouts, and disruptions to both residential and commercial areas.
The Public Prosecution ordered continued detention for several individuals, including landlords who rented properties for mining activities, through the Commercial Crimes Prosecutor’s office.
Some suspects were granted release on bail set at 500 Kuwaiti dinars.
Authorities presented evidence of substantial, unexplained financial deposits to the defendants—reports indicate some allegedly received between 3,000 and 4,000 dinars per day from unidentified sources.
Defendants have denied the allegations, but investigators linked them to seized mining equipment and criminal inquiry reports.
To disrupt ongoing illegal mining, the Ministry of Electricity has begun disconnecting power at identified locations.
Reconnection will only be permitted after approval from the Ministry of Interior.