Daijiworld Media Network – Kuwait City
Kuwait City, Feb 19: In a sweeping nationwide operation, the Ministry of Interior (MoI) arrested 45 reckless drivers and referred 19 juveniles to legal authorities as part of an intensified security and traffic safety campaign aimed at curbing dangerous behaviour on the country’s roads.
The multi-agency drive, involving traffic police units, patrol teams and intelligence resources, was launched in response to rising concerns over road safety, including excessive speeding, illegal drifting, ignoring traffic signals and participation in informal street races.
Authorities said the enforcement push was guided by accident data and community complaints highlighting an increase in reckless driving incidents linked to fatalities, injuries and property damage.
During the campaign, officers detained drivers accused of:
• Performing dangerous stunts and manoeuvres
• Running red lights and ignoring road signals
• Driving without valid permits or insurance
• Exceeding speed limits
• Engaging in street racing
Officials emphasised that reckless driving remains one of the leading causes of road accidents in Kuwait, and that visible enforcement — including on-the-spot arrests — serves as a deterrent to habitual and first-time offenders alike.
In addition to traffic arrests, 19 juveniles were referred to legal authorities over various infractions observed during the campaign. While specific case details were not disclosed, juveniles are typically referred for involvement in behaviour that endangers public safety, including participation in or encouragement of reckless driving.
Authorities indicated that such referrals may include rehabilitative measures, legal counselling or supervised programmes designed to prevent escalation into more serious offences.
Community observers have noted that early intervention, combined with education and structured guidance, can help steer young people away from high-risk behaviour and reinforce responsible conduct.
Kuwait’s crackdown mirrors wider Gulf efforts to tackle road safety challenges. Countries such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have adopted stricter monitoring systems, heavier fines and public awareness campaigns targeting speeding, mobile phone use while driving and other traffic violations.
Kuwaiti authorities stressed that the latest campaign is not a one-off initiative but part of a sustained strategy to reduce crash-related injuries and fatalities, while reinforcing respect for the rule of law.
Social media reaction has been largely supportive, with many residents calling for continued enforcement in busy districts where high-speed driving and drifting have become common concerns.
Observers have also suggested complementary measures, including:
• Road safety education in schools
• Public awareness campaigns
• Enhanced pedestrian infrastructure
• Youth-focused engagement programmes
The MoI has signalled that enforcement operations will continue and may be expanded through technological upgrades, increased highway patrols and coordinated awareness drives.
Officials reiterated that compliance with traffic laws is non-negotiable, underscoring that public safety depends on responsible behaviour from drivers of all ages.