Kuwait’s Criminal Investigation Department has dismantled a network involved in stealing diesel from vehicles belonging to government agencies and private companies and selling the fuel illegally.
A total of 41 people were arrested in connection with the case, including individuals allegedly involved in stealing, selling and purchasing the stolen diesel.
Investigations found that drivers had been secretly siphoning diesel from vehicles entrusted to them as part of their work, without the knowledge of the owners. The stolen fuel was then transported to a site in the Anghar area, where it was stored in specialized tanks before being sold for use in various projects.
Authorities also identified the involvement of a Kuwaiti national who rented out tankers used to collect and transport the stolen diesel for KD1,600 per month. Investigators found that he was aware that the tankers were being used for illegal activities but continued to rent them out.
After completing surveillance and investigative procedures, security personnel caught key suspects in the act while they were allegedly siphoning diesel from a vehicle. Authorities subsequently arrested individuals who arrived to purchase the stored fuel, along with others linked to the operation.
As part of the crackdown, 38 vehicles belonging to government agencies and private companies were seized. The suspects and confiscated vehicles were referred to the relevant authorities for further legal proceedings.
