Kuwait Cracks Down on Unauthorized Crypto Mining: 60 Individuals Being Investigated for Illegal Activities

Kuwait’s government is intensifying its efforts against unauthorized cryptocurrency mining operations, currently investigating over 60 individuals to dismantle these unlicensed setups.

The Public Prosecution of Kuwait has stated that these inquiries are ongoing and alerted that further suspects may emerge in the following weeks. A nationwide security operation executed recently focused on residential areas suspected of containing mining equipment.

Key officials, including the Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef and Minister of Electricity Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, spearheaded the coordinated operation. The administration seeks to address unauthorized power consumption, which has placed a significant burden on the national electricity grid and contributed to power outages in various regions.

In response, the Ministry of Electricity has begun to sever power supply to properties associated with mining. Restoration of power will only be granted upon clearance from the Ministry of Interior, and officials are also making subsequent inspections in several neighborhoods.

Kuwait has implemented a total prohibition on all cryptocurrency mining activities, backed by directives from its anti-money laundering committee and endorsed by regulatory bodies like the National Bank of Kuwait.