Kuwaiti authorities have arrested two employees of a local airline — a doctor and a pilot — in a sweeping crackdown on illegal ammunition and alcohol possession, the Ministry of Interior confirmed today.
The operation began at Kuwait International Airport when customs officers discovered 64 rounds of unlicensed ammunition in the luggage of the doctor during routine screening. Upon interrogation, the doctor admitted ownership of the ammunition and claimed it had been supplied by a pilot working for the same airline.
Following this lead, security forces swiftly apprehended the pilot at the airport. During questioning, he corroborated the doctor’s statement. Authorities then obtained a warrant to search the pilot’s residence and vehicle, where they uncovered a cache of 500 additional rounds of unlicensed ammunition.
The investigation widened when officers searched a second property owned by the pilot in the upscale Al Shaab Al Bahri area. There, police found 87 bottles of alcohol and a variety of materials commonly used in the illicit production of homemade liquor. The pilot reportedly confessed to manufacturing alcohol at his residence using ingredients and equipment purchased through online platforms.
Both suspects have been charged and referred to the relevant legal authorities for further action.
The Ministry of Interior said the arrests form part of a broader campaign to crack down on illegal weapons possession and the production and distribution of alcohol — both of which are strictly prohibited under Kuwaiti law.
“The Ministry will continue its zero-tolerance approach to any violations that pose a threat to public safety or violate the country’s laws and traditions,” an official statement read.
Possession of ammunition without a license is a criminal offense in Kuwait, as is the manufacture or possession of alcohol. Violations can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines.
The case has sparked renewed scrutiny of security and vetting procedures for airline staff, particularly those in sensitive positions such as aviation medicine and flight operations.
Authorities have not disclosed the name of the airline involved but confirmed that both the doctor and the pilot were employed by the same carrier.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to maintaining security at all ports of entry and urged citizens and residents to report any suspicious activity.
