Algiers – Judicial police have apprehended a young man, identified as “S.R.,” who was allegedly preparing to leave the country as part of an organized illegal migration attempt. The arrest is part of ongoing efforts to combat illegal migration along the western coast of Algiers.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that the suspect was subject to an arrest warrant issued by the Chéraga Court. The warrant stemmed from a previous conviction sentencing him to 12 years in prison and a fine of 5 million Algerian dinars for possession of drugs and psychotropic substances with intent to sell. He was also implicated in belonging to a gang involved in drug trafficking near a primary school in the Bérridja area of Staouéli.
According to reports, police seized 1.5 grams of processed cannabis, 15 Pregabalin tablets, and 80 million centimes in cash, suspected to be proceeds from illegal activities, from the suspect’s residence. His brother was also arrested during the operation, while the main suspect remained at large until his recent capture.
During his court appearance to appeal the initial sentence, the accused denied all charges, claiming no involvement with drugs or the gang. He further stated that he was unaware of the outstanding warrant. His defense requested an acquittal.
The prosecution maintained its support for the original sentence of 12 years imprisonment and a 5 million Algerian dinar fine.
The Chéraga Court previously adjudicated a case involving 18 defendants arrested by the National Gendarmerie in Staouéli for dismantling a drug trafficking network operating near an educational institution in Bérridja. Sentences ranged from 3 to 6 years imprisonment, with varying fines, while some defendants were acquitted, and a seized vehicle was returned.
