Algeria has officially established a central judicial police unit within the Directorate General of Internal Security (DGSI), under the Ministry of National Defense. The move, formalized by a presidential decree published in the latest Official Gazette, signifies a reorganization and strengthening of the country’s internal security apparatus. This new entity will play a vital role in investigating crimes and maintaining order within Algeria.
The newly formed “Central Service of Judicial Police of the Directorate General of Internal Security of the Ministry of National Defense” replaces the previous designation, “Judicial Investigation Service of the Directorate General of Internal Security of the Ministry of National Defense.” This change, while seemingly semantic, reflects a broadening of the unit’s mandate and operational capabilities. The core responsibilities, however, remain focused on maintaining national security.
According to the decree, the central judicial police unit is tasked with investigating crimes falling under its jurisdiction, as defined by existing laws and regulations. This includes gathering evidence, identifying perpetrators, and conducting preliminary investigations, provided a judicial inquiry has not already been initiated. The unit is also authorized to receive complaints and reports, acting as a primary point of contact for citizens and other agencies.
In essence, the new unit functions as a dedicated internal security police force, focusing on preventative measures and the investigation of threats to Algeria’s stability. This could encompass a wide range of activities, from counter-terrorism efforts to combating organized crime and addressing internal threats to national institutions.
To effectively carry out its duties, Article 6 of the decree stipulates that the central service will be equipped with regional services, a regional office, and mobile judicial police teams. This decentralized structure will allow for a more responsive and adaptable approach to addressing security challenges across the country. The mobile teams, in particular, will enhance the unit’s ability to quickly deploy to areas where threats are identified or emerging.
The creation of this central judicial police unit underscores Algeria’s commitment to bolstering its internal security capabilities and adapting to evolving security threats. By consolidating resources and streamlining investigative processes, the Algerian government aims to improve the effectiveness of its law enforcement agencies and ensure the safety and security of its citizens. This move is part of a broader effort to modernize Algeria’s security architecture and enhance its capacity to respond to a wide range of challenges, both domestic and international. Key words: Algeria, Internal Security, Judicial Police, DGSI, Ministry of National Defense, Crime Investigation, Law Enforcement.
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