03/08/2025
Share:
03/08/2025
Share:
KUWAIT CITY, Aug 3: In a vital legislative move to curb the use of dangerous bladed weapons and air guns, Kuwait has enacted Decree-Law No. 90/2025 published in the latest issue of the Official Gazette, ‘Kuwait Al-Youm’. The decree stipulates comprehensive amendments to Decree- Law No. 13/1991 concerning weapons and ammunition -- the first time these categories of weapons are explicitly regulated under Kuwaiti law.
The amendment responds to what the accompanying explanatory memorandum describes as the “increasing use of these weapons in assaults and in spreading fear among the public,” which it characterizes as a serious and escalating threat to societal safety. The government pointed out the urgent need for legislative action to address this phenomenon and bolster public protection.
One of the key changes is the title of the law to incorporate “dangerous bladed weapons and air guns”, reflecting its expanded scope. Substantial amendments have been made to Articles 2, 11, 12, and 21; and several new articles have been introduced to define and regulate the classification, possession and use of these weapons. The law now prohibits the possession, acquisition or use of such weapons in prohibited places; unless justified by personal or professional necessity. The Minister of Interior is granted broad discretionary powers to issue or revoke licenses accordingly. Under the amended Article 11, the Minister of Interior is authorized to determine:
What qualifies as a “dangerous bladed weapon or dangerous air gun”? The scope of ‘prohibited places’ includes:
- Public gathering areas
- Government and service facilities
- Markets and public transportation
- Places of worship and educational institutions
- Other locations as designated by the ministry. Personnel from the police, National Guard, military, fire services, and other approved government entities are exempt from these restrictions, provided they are officially licensed.
The amendments impose stricter penalties aimed at deterrence as follows:
- Imprisonment of up to two years and fines for unauthorized possession or carrying of such weapons in public;
- Increased penalties for repeat offenders;
- Specific penalties for individuals who use these weapons to intimidate or terrorize others, regardless of whether the weapon is used or not;
- Severe penalties for the import, sale or promotion of such weapons without proper licensing, including potential permanent license revocation;
- Mandatory confiscation of all weapons used in the offense in all cases.
The decree stipulates that the amended law will be enforced three months after its publication date. All prior legal provisions that conflict with the new text will be officially repealed. This legislative development is considered a major step toward preventive regulatory control, in line with evolving security threats. The government reiterated that the primary aim is to guarantee public safety without compromising legitimate freedoms; thereby, balancing enforcement with legal rights and responsible ownership.
By Jaber Al-Hamoud
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
