Algiers, Algeria – Thirty-six individuals have been detained and placed in pre-trial detention on charges related to migrant smuggling, drug trafficking, and money laundering, according to a statement released by the Sidi M’Hamed court complex. The arrests are the result of an ongoing investigation into a transnational organized crime group.
The Public Prosecutor’s office at the specialized judicial pole of the Sidi M’Hamed court announced that the individuals are suspected of being part of a 47-member criminal organization involved in the illegal smuggling of migrants using high-powered boats equipped with sophisticated communication technology. The group is also accused of trafficking narcotics and psychotropic substances, and of establishing shell companies, including luxury car rental and sales businesses, to launder the proceeds of their illicit activities. Furthermore, they allegedly exploited public officials to facilitate their crimes.
According to the statement, the Central Service for Combating Organized Crime of the National Security conducted the initial investigation, leading to the arrest of the 36 suspects. Seven other suspects remain at large, while four are already incarcerated for similar offenses. During the operation, authorities seized four boats, 22 luxury vehicles, two motorcycles, a firearm with 61 rounds of live ammunition, and over 28.4 million Algerian dinars in cash.
The suspects were presented before the specialized judicial pole of the Sidi M’Hamed court on November 26, 2025, and are being prosecuted for offenses including felony migrant smuggling as part of an organized criminal group, felony sale of narcotics and psychotropic substances as part of an organized criminal group, misdemeanor money laundering within a criminal organization, misdemeanor abuse of office, and misdemeanor possession of a category four firearm and ammunition without legal authorization.
The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat organized crime and illegal activities in Algeria. The charges fall under articles of the penal code and other relevant legislation.
