Kuwait launches crackdown on crypto miners over power grid concerns

• Kuwait has launched a crackdown on illegal crypto mining.
• The coordinated effort targeted residential properties suspected of being used as illegal crypto mining hubs.
• Some suspects have been released on bail of 500 Kuwaiti dinars.

Kuwait has launched a sweeping crackdown on illegal cryptocurrency mining operations, with around 60 individuals currently under investigation and more expected to face legal action in the coming weeks.

The move follows a major security operation aimed at curbing the unlicensed use of electricity for crypto mining, which authorities say is putting immense strain on the national power grid and threatening public infrastructure.

The operation was conducted last Friday.

The coordinated effort targeted residential properties suspected of being used as illegal crypto mining hubs.

According to Kuwait’s Cabinet, the raids are part of ongoing national efforts to combat financial crimes, protect the energy sector from unauthorized consumption, and preserve public safety.

Officials noted that illegal mining setups often consume enormous amounts of electricity, causing grid overloads, power cuts, and disruptions to both residential and commercial areas.

The Public Prosecution, via the Commercial Affairs Prosecution, has ordered the continued detention of several individuals, including property owners who rented out homes for mining operations.

Some suspects have been released on bail of 500 Kuwaiti dinars.

Authorities reportedly confronted the accused with evidence of large, unexplained financial deposits—some earning as much as 3,000–4,000 dinars daily from anonymous sources.

Despite denying the charges, the defendants were linked to seized crypto mining equipment and criminal investigation reports.

To disrupt ongoing illicit mining activities, the Ministry of Electricity has begun cutting off power to identified sites.

Reconnection will only be approved after clearance from the Ministry of Interior.