Kidnapping cases in Kuwait plunge 45.5%

Kuwait has witnessed a significant drop in serious crimes affecting personal freedom and honor, with kidnapping cases plummeting by 45.5% in the first half of 2026 compared to the previous year. Statistics from the Ministry of Justice reveal a substantial decline across various offenses.

Minister of Justice Nasser Yousef Al-Sumait highlighted that kidnapping cases fell from 99 to 54. Crimes against honor and reputation decreased by 28%, from 168 to 121 cases. Indecent assault cases dropped by 50%, from 76 to 38. Specifically, child abductions by individuals without custody rights decreased by 45.3%, and kidnappings involving force and intent to harm fell by 64.3%.

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The law prohibits withdrawing a complaint, reconciling with perpetrators or pardoning them in cases of sexual abuse, domestic violence against children, minors or those lacking legal capacity, as well as violence against parents by their own children.

These positive indicators coincide with the ongoing development of Kuwait's criminal justice system. Key legal reforms include the repeal of Article 182 of the Penal Code, which previously allowed a kidnapper to escape punishment if they married the victim and their guardian requested no penalty. This repeal has intensified accountability for perpetrators. The new Domestic Violence Protection Law also enhances safeguards for vulnerable groups by restricting the withdrawal of complaints, reconciliation, or pardon in specific cases.

Al-Sumait affirmed the government's commitment to continuously upgrading legislation and reviewing criminal and procedural laws. These efforts aim to solidify the protection of rights and freedoms, maintain public security, and uphold the rule of law in Kuwait.

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These indicators coincide with the ongoing development of the criminal justice system and the strengthening of legal protection, such as the repeal of Article 182 of the Penal Code.