Kuwait’s Battle Against Illegal Crypto Mining

Kuwaiti authorities are intensifying their crackdown on illegal cryptocurrency mining, targeting over 60 suspects in a comprehensive effort to eliminate unauthorized operations that have been straining the national electricity grid.

The Public Prosecution confirmed that investigations are ongoing and indicated that more suspects may be discovered shortly.
“The security operation conducted last Friday aimed at residential suspects across the nation known for hosting mining rigs,” local media reports state.

The crackdown has been coordinated by high-ranking officials, including Acting Prime Minister Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef and Minister of Electricity Dr. Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem. The goal is to alleviate excessive energy consumption that has caused blackouts in some regions.

The Ministry of Electricity has initiated power disconnections from identified properties linked to mining activities. Reconnection will only occur once clearance is obtained from the Ministry of Interior. Authorities are also organizing follow-up inspections in numerous neighborhoods.

In line with these efforts, Kuwait has imposed a strict ban on all virtual asset and cryptocurrency mining activities, a directive stemming from its anti-money laundering committee supported by the National Bank of Kuwait.