Kuwait is moving forward with tough drug control measures to combat trafficking and safeguard public safety. The Cabinet approved a new draft decree-law this week to enhance penalties and broaden the scope of capital punishment for traffickers. Officials said these measures aim to unify regulations and strengthen enforcement against drug-related crimes.
The new draft merges law no. 74 of 1983 and decree-law no. 48 of 1987. This step consolidates penalties, procedures, and terminology, making the application of tough drug control measures more effective nationwide. It will cover smugglers, dealers, promoters, and others involved in drug or psychotropic substance exchanges, with heavier fines and death sentences in extreme cases.
Officials stressed that the merger of laws will benefit society by protecting citizens from drug-related harms. The decree-law also simplifies enforcement for law agencies, ensuring consistent application of justice. Moreover, it strengthens coordination among law enforcement bodies and improves legal clarity.
Kuwait has already seen progress in drug control enforcement. Over the past 12 months, authorities reportedly reduced trafficking by 90 percent, while street prices for drugs increased seven- to eightfold. These outcomes illustrate the effectiveness of tough anti-drug measures when combined with robust policing and legal oversight.
Meanwhile, other legal reforms continue alongside the drug control measures. The Public Authority of Manpower enforces expat quotas to ensure fair employment practices, while authorities are exploring options for housing large numbers of expat workers in planned cities. Additionally, the Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority lifted the Roblox ban, with restrictions to protect users, particularly children.
The public prosecution is also tackling corruption and fraudulent schemes. Recently, 73 defendants involved in commercial raffle manipulation were referred to criminal court. Investigations revealed a complex network that misused official positions, forged documents, and concealed illicit proceeds. Furthermore, the Kuwait Anti-Corruption Authority referred over 30 individuals to public prosecution for failing to submit financial disclosure statements.
Kuwait’s coordinated efforts reflect a comprehensive approach to law enforcement. By implementing tough drug control measures alongside anti-corruption and social safeguards, the country aims to strengthen public trust, protect citizens, and maintain legal integrity.
