Kuwait authorities cracked down on diesel smuggling in Kuwait after seizing a marine vessel selling fuel illegally. The interior ministry said the general administration of the coast guard spotted the vessel using unmanned patrol boats. Therefore, specialized teams quickly intercepted the suspects and secured the area. Officials said the operation shows the government’s ongoing commitment to protecting national resources and enforcing maritime law.
Investigators discovered that the vessel’s captain and crew sold subsidized diesel to other marine vessels in Kuwait’s territorial waters. They admitted receiving payments through bank transfers. Authorities confirmed that the illegal sales violated national regulations. As a result, the coastguard arrested 18 people and handed them over to competent authorities for legal action.
The ministry said the seizure is part of broader security measures to protect Kuwait’s resources. Officials warned that diesel smuggling in Kuwait threatens national security and misuses state subsidies. Consequently, authorities continue monitoring maritime operations closely and taking swift action against illegal activity.
Moreover, coastguard teams now watch marine traffic more carefully in sensitive areas. They use technology and regular patrols to detect suspicious actions. This approach allows quick responses to threats and improves overall maritime safety. Experts also noted that active monitoring strengthens public trust and preserves key resources.
Officials stressed that anyone involved in diesel smuggling in Kuwait will face strict legal consequences. They added that exploiting state subsidies cannot continue unchecked. While taking firm action, Kuwait demonstrates it will not tolerate illegal profits at the public’s expense.
The operation sends a clear warning to other potential offenders. Authorities also continue investigating related networks to prevent future cases. They encouraged citizens and businesses to report suspicious activities to help secure national resources.
This enforcement action shows Kuwait’s broader plan to strengthen national security. Coordinating coastguards, law enforcement, and regulatory authorities allows the country to address illegal activity quickly. The government confirmed that protecting public assets and enforcing maritime law remain top priorities.

