Kuwait: Salman Al-Khaldi sentenced to 15 years in prison and deportation... Details of the verdict and his arrest
The Criminal Court in Kuwait issued a new ruling sentencing Salman Al-Khaldi to 15 years imprisonment with hard labor, followed by deportation, on charges related to state security. This ruling adds to a series of previous judgments against him, reflecting the Kuwaiti judicial authorities' firm stance in dealing with cases affecting national security.
Details of the verdict and criminal record
The court explained in its ruling that al-Khalidi's actions fall under the category of crimes punishable by law, warranting severe penalties to deter any threat to the stability of the state. This is the third case in which al-Khalidi has been formally convicted; he had previously received sentences of five years imprisonment in two separate cases, bringing his total number of enforceable convictions to [number missing in original text].
Background of his arrest in Iraq
The details of the suspect's arrest date back to January 2025, when the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior announced the success of a high-profile security operation that resulted in the extradition of Al-Khaldi, who had been a fugitive abroad. The suspect was located within Iraqi territory, and intensive coordination took place between Kuwaiti and Iraqi security agencies to apprehend him before he could attempt to flee to another destination.
Al-Khalidi was wanted in connection with 11 enforceable court rulings, and an Arab and international warrant had been issued against him since December 4, 2023, which made his movements closely monitored by the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol).
The importance of regional security cooperation
This event marks a significant milestone in security cooperation between countries in the region, particularly between Kuwait and Iraq. Security experts affirm that the successful extradition of Al-Khalidi reflects a marked improvement in the implementation of bilateral security agreements and the exchange of wanted persons, sending a strong message that neighboring countries are no longer safe havens for fugitives from justice.
This achievement highlights the role of the Criminal Security Sector of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Interior and its ability to pursue wanted individuals beyond the borders, which enhances the prestige of the law and confirms that the long arm of justice is capable of reaching transgressors wherever they are found, in order to protect society and preserve its security gains.
