Here is a summary of the main news regarding the arrest of a person on charges of cryptocurrency mining in Kuwait:
📰 Main details
The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior announced the arrest of a Kuwaiti citizen for operating cryptocurrency mining equipment inside a rented house in Sabah Al-Ahmad Residential City.
Identity of the accused: He has been identified as Khaled Samir Fahd Shehab, and he stated during the investigations that he reactivated the devices about 15 days before the arrest date, after having previously hidden them during an earlier security campaign.
Reason for arrest: Operating cryptocurrency mining activities is legally prohibited in Kuwait due to its massive consumption of electronic energy, which weakens the national electricity grid and may lead to outages.
The operation was carried out based on a permit from the Public Prosecution following field investigations, which found that the house was rented in the name of a person whose nationality was revoked. Mining devices were confiscated, and the Ministry of Electricity, Water, and Energy was notified to take action against the illegal use of electricity.
Legal procedures: The accused has been referred to the relevant authorities for trial, with the possibility of facing imprisonment and fines according to current legislation that criminalizes unauthorized activities.
📌 Overview of Kuwaiti policies
Since 2023, Kuwait has officially banned investment, trading, and providing services related to cryptocurrencies, including mining activities. Those who violate this face strict measures including imprisonment and fines.
In May 2025, authorities revealed an extensive campaign targeting several homes in the Al-Wafra area, resulting in a 55% reduction in electricity consumption after seizing mining operations that consumed up to 20 times more than normal consumption.
✅ Summary
This event is considered one of the first documented cases of arresting a Kuwaiti citizen on charges of cryptocurrency mining in a residential area.
Adhering to the laws is essential, as there is no tolerance for activities that threaten the stability of the electricity grid.
