Kuwaiti police arrest 67 in toxic methanol production case

Kuwaiti security forces have dismantled a criminal network accused of producing and distributing methanol, a toxic chemical compound linked to multiple deaths in recent weeks.

The Ministry of Interior announced on Saturday that coordinated field investigations by the Criminal Investigation Department, the General Administration for Drug Control, the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the Ministry of Health led to the arrests.

Authorities first apprehended an Asian suspect in the Al-Salmiya area of Hawalli Governorate, where quantities of methanol were seized. Following interrogation, the suspect confessed to illicitly processing and marketing the substance. This led to the arrest of three additional accomplices, all of Asian nationality, including the gang’s main operator.

According to the ministry, the broader clampdown on methanol production has so far resulted in 67 arrests, the closure of six operating facilities and the discovery of four others under construction. These facilities were engaged in manufacturing and promoting the chemical for illicit distribution.

The ministry emphasized the dangers of methanol, warning that ingestion can cause severe poisoning and immediate death. Officials urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities tied to the illegal production of hazardous substances.