DZWatch Exclusive: An investigation into the recent forest fires that plagued the Tipaza region has led to the arrest of four individuals suspected of deliberately starting the blazes. The Sidi M’Hamed Court announced the breakthrough earlier today, confirming that the suspects are now in custody.
According to a statement released by the court, the arrests stem from an inquiry into a series of fires that erupted in several areas of the country in recent days. The investigation focused on a criminal group accused of intentionally setting fire to a forest located in the municipality of Larhat, in the Tipaza province.
The fires caused significant damage, destroying Aleppo pine trees, scrubland, brush, and agricultural land, all within the forest perimeter. The severity of the damage prompted a swift and thorough investigation by authorities.
“Following their presentation before us on November 20, 2025, the suspects are being prosecuted under judicial investigation procedures,” the court statement detailed. The charges include ‘committing destructive acts aimed at endangering the lives, safety, and property of persons’ and ‘deliberately setting fire to state-owned forest property.’ These actions are punishable under articles 87 bis of the Penal Code and 138 of the law relating to forests and forest resources.
After questioning by the investigating judge, detention orders were issued against all the accused, placing them in pre-trial detention. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine the full extent of the group’s activities and any potential accomplices. DZWatch will continue to follow this developing story and provide updates as they become available.
