New Law Targets Knife-Wielding Thugs and Gun-Toting Vandals in Kuwait

Arab Times

5 days ago

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 3: Kuwait has launched a major crackdown on dangerous weapons, including machetes, air guns, and even silencers, amid growing fears over rising violence and street intimidation. A newly issued decree-law has introduced sweeping changes to the country's decades-old weapons legislation, giving authorities the power to license, restrict, or revoke ownership of all types of weapons – and to jail anyone caught carrying them illegally.
The move comes as officials raise the alarm over the alarming spread of individuals brandishing bladed and air weapons to assault or terrorize members of the public. According to the government's explanatory note, the widespread misuse of such weapons has become a 'serious threat to public security', prompting urgent legal intervention.
The original law (Decree-Law No. 13 of 1991 ) had been in place for more than 30 years, but officials say the security situation has evolved dramatically, demanding stronger legal measures.
Under the updated law, even the name of the decree has been changed to: 'Regarding Weapons, Ammunition, Bladed Weapons, and Dangerous Air Weapons' – reflecting the broadened scope of regulation.
What the Law Says Now:
No one may possess or acquire any weapon or ammunition without a license issued by the Minister of Interior or his delegate.
Authorities now have the power to reject, cancel, or modify licenses at will, without explanation.
Carrying bladed or air weapons in public or prohibited places is banned unless the person has a clear personal or professional reason.
Total ban on heavy-duty weapons, including cannons, machine guns, and silencers, under any circumstances.
Legal experts say the new law introduces harsh penalties for violators, aiming to send a strong message of deterrence amid growing concern over public safety.
Security analysts have welcomed the move, calling it a 'long-overdue' step to rein in illegal weapons that are often seen in street fights, tribal disputes, and even celebratory shootings.