KUWAIT CITY: In a major operation aimed at safeguarding national resources, the General Department of Coast Guard has seized a maritime vessel involved in the smuggling and illegal sale of subsidized diesel within the territorial waters of the State of Kuwait, the Ministry of Interior announced.

According to the ministry, the operation was carried out after Coast Guard surveillance drones detected suspicious activity by the vessel while patrolling Kuwait’s territorial waters. Upon confirmation, specialized field teams were immediately dispatched to intercept the vessel and take the necessary legal and security measures.

Subsequent search and investigation procedures revealed that the vessel’s captain, along with members of the crew, had been selling subsidized diesel through illegal means to several other maritime vessels operating within Kuwaiti waters. Authorities confirmed that the illicit fuel sales were conducted in exchange for financial payments transferred via bank accounts, in violation of laws governing subsidies and maritime operations.

The operation resulted in the arrest of 18 individuals implicated in the case, including the captain and crew members. The vessel was impounded, and all suspects were referred to the competent authorities for further investigation and the initiation of legal proceedings.

The Ministry of Interior emphasized that such practices constitute a direct violation of the law and an abuse of state subsidies intended for legitimate use. The ministry reiterated its commitment to strengthening maritime security oversight, utilizing advanced surveillance technologies, and taking firm action against any attempts to exploit public resources or undermine the country’s security.