The Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior has issued a stern warning to individuals and entities engaging in illegal cryptocurrency mining, following the discovery of over 1,000 unauthorized mining operations across the country. The crackdown was prompted by a nationwide investigation into suspicious electricity usage, with the Ministry vowing legal action against violators who continue to defy the country’s comprehensive ban on crypto-related activities.
Illegal Mining Exposed Through Power Anomalies
The investigation, carried out in cooperation with the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, flagged homes and sites in the Al-Wafra region where electricity consumption had surged to levels up to 20 times higher than average. These anomalies led officials to uncover extensive underground crypto mining activities.
The Ministry confirmed that such operations violate multiple national laws, including:
- The Penal Code, addressing unauthorized and harmful actions;
- The Communications and Information Technology Law, which governs digital infrastructure usage;
- The Industry Law, regulating industrial practices; and
- Municipal codes, which dictate appropriate usage of resources and residential infrastructure.
Authorities have urged all participants in such activities to immediately halt mining operations or risk facing criminal charges and penalties.
Blanket Crypto Ban Remains in Effect
The warning serves as a reminder of Kuwait’s strict stance on digital assets. In 2023, the Capital Markets Authority implemented a blanket ban on all crypto-related activities — including mining, trading, and transfers — positioning Kuwait as one of the most crypto-restrictive countries in the Middle East.
Despite the ban, illegal mining persists, largely fueled by Kuwait’s low electricity costs, which make the country an attractive hub for clandestine operations.
Fallout from the Bitcoin Kuwait Scandal
Illegal trading has also remained active among residents, highlighted by the infamous Bitcoin Kuwait scandal, where a fraudulent token managed to attract significant investment before collapsing. The scam ultimately defrauded investors of over 40 million Kuwaiti dinars (approx. $130 million), sparking national outrage and reinforcing the need for tighter enforcement.
Final Warning from Authorities
The Ministry’s April 22 statement marks one of the most aggressive public warnings to date and signals a potential wave of enforcement actions in the coming weeks. Authorities continue to monitor electricity usage and other indicators as they ramp up their campaign to eliminate illegal crypto activity in the country.
As Kuwait reaffirms its absolute ban on cryptocurrency mining and trading, the government is stepping up efforts to root out violations and safeguard the country’s infrastructure and economic stability. With over 1,000 sites now exposed, the crackdown could redefine the regional crypto landscape and send a clear message to underground operators.
