KUWAIT CITY, May 19: In an exclusive interview, Brigadier General Mishaal Al-Faraj, Director of the Environmental Police Department, highlighted the department's role in safeguarding Kuwait’s environment. Al-Faraj addressed several key topics, including the penalties for environmental violations, the department's cooperative efforts with other agencies, and the challenges it faces in maintaining environmental protection across the country.

One of the most pressing issues discussed was the rising number of environmental violations and the enforcement of laws aimed at curbing them. Brigadier Al-Faraj emphasized that the Environmental Police, in collaboration with the General Directorate of Coast Guard, is intensifying efforts to apprehend violators of the Environmental Law. This is achieved through regular information exchanges, joint inspection tours, and the referral of offenders to the appropriate authorities.

Brigadier Al-Faraj detailed the department's active monitoring of Kuwait Bay, especially during the fishing ban periods. He warned that violators, particularly those caught fishing during restricted hours, face hefty fines of up to 5,000 dinars. Additionally, the Environmental Police has been diligent in issuing fines for littering on beaches, with around 80 violations issued during the national celebrations in February. Fines for littering can reach 500 dinars, although offenders can settle the fines for as little as 50 dinars.

The department is also vigilant in regulating smoking in public spaces. Smoking in closed commercial spaces carries a fine of up to 500 dinars, while smoking in parking lots and airports is similarly penalized. Establishments that allow smoking without the proper licenses face fines as high as 1,000 dinars.

Al-Faraj also addressed the issue of spring camps, which have a significant negative impact on the land. These camps contribute to the degradation of soil quality, which in turn affects plant life and disrupts local wildlife. The Environmental Police is committed to ensuring that camps are set up only in designated areas and that they adhere to strict environmental guidelines to minimize harm.

The Director highlighted the seamless coordination between the Environmental Police and the General Directorate of Coast Guard. Together, they monitor and protect Kuwait's marine environment, specifically targeting illegal fishing and preventing seawater pollution. In addition to their joint efforts, the Environmental Police operates two dedicated boats stationed at the Police Officers Club Marina, allowing them to independently patrol Kuwait Bay and other coastal areas.

Brigadier Al-Faraj noted that although the Environmental Police has its own specialized Marine Environment Monitoring Unit, the close cooperation with the Coast Guard remains essential for tackling complex marine violations.

The department faces numerous challenges, particularly due to the widespread nature of environmental violations. These violations span across land, sea, and air, and the increasing complexity of some crimes requires coordination with multiple agencies, including Customs and Interpol. However, Brigadier Al-Faraj was optimistic, noting that public awareness has been improving in recent years, which has led to a noticeable decrease in violations, especially during national holidays.

The Environmental Police regularly conducts educational campaigns in universities, schools, and government offices to promote environmental protection. Al-Faraj emphasized the importance of these initiatives in cultivating a culture of environmental responsibility among citizens and residents.

Regarding enforcement, Al-Faraj clarified that Environmental Police officers have the authority to issue fines for violations within their jurisdiction. For cases that fall outside their scope, officers have the power to arrest violators and summon judicial officers from the Environment Public Authority to handle the situation.

In addition, smoking in enclosed and semi-enclosed spaces, such as malls and airports, is considered a violation of the law, with fines ranging from 50 to 500 dinars for smokers. Those who discard cigarette butts in non-designated areas can also be fined up to 500 dinars for littering.

Brigadier Al-Faraj spoke about the department's efforts to enhance its officers' expertise, noting that regular training programs are held to keep personnel updated on environmental laws and protection techniques. The Environmental Police also participates in national and international workshops to strengthen its ability to address emerging environmental challenges.

Another important area of cooperation is with the Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR). Al-Faraj outlined that both agencies work closely to protect Kuwait’s wildlife, fisheries, and nature reserves. A Memorandum of Understanding signed in September 2023 further formalized this collaboration, particularly in addressing violations related to endangered species.

The interview also touched on Kuwait’s commitment to global environmental conservation efforts. Al-Faraj acknowledged the growing international interest in protecting the environment, citing the 1972 Stockholm Conference as a key milestone in shaping the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and fostering international agreements aimed at mitigating environmental damage.

Finally, Brigadier Al-Faraj expressed his gratitude for the strong support provided by the Acting Prime Minister, Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef. He praised the Prime Minister’s role in ensuring that the Environmental Police Department receives the necessary resources, equipment, and personnel to carry out its duties effectively. According to Al-Faraj, this support has been instrumental in enhancing the department’s capabilities and its ability to protect Kuwait’s environment.

He concluded by emphasizing that the Environmental Police is committed to working towards sustainable environmental practices and is aligning its efforts with Kuwait’s broader development goals.