KUWAIT CITY, May 31: After a decade on the run, fugitive Musaed Al-Musaileem was extradited to Kuwait on Friday evening, following his arrest by Malaysian authorities based on an international warrant issued through Interpol. He arrived in Kuwait aboard a Kuwait Airways flight via Doha, where the plane made a brief transit stop.

Kuwaiti security forces took custody of Al-Musaileem upon his arrival at Kuwait International Airport, completing all detention procedures. Authorities have since begun formal investigations in preparation for his trial.

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Fahad Al-Yousef issued a stern warning to those living abroad who engage in activities aimed at harming Kuwait. He cautioned that such individuals will inevitably return, but with disgrace, unable to stand with dignity among their fellow citizens.

Sheikh Al-Yousef said, “Those who left Kuwait and believed that distance gave them the license to attack, fabricate, and harm must now reflect on their actions. They should consider the fate of those who came before them. There is no escaping justice.”

He continued, “There is a stark difference between someone who returns to their homeland with honor, with knowledge, a degree, or a prestigious award  and one who returns in shame, having betrayed their country and attacked its people and leaders.”

The minister also highlighted Kuwait’s continued support and generosity toward its citizens and expats, expressing dismay at those who choose to overlook or disparage these efforts. “Justice stands above all, and the arm of the law is long. Anyone who thought Kuwait was an easy target will discover, sooner or later, that Kuwait does not forget those who harm it,” he said.

Reiterating his message, Sheikh Al-Yousef concluded with a warning to those who have strayed: “You will return… but do not return with a black face.”

Al-Musaileem, who fled Kuwait in 2015, has been sentenced to over 30 years in prison across six separate cases. Notably, his name had been included in the 2023 amnesty list — an opportunity he declined, choosing instead to remain in exile.