Algiers – An individual identified as (N.A.) has been sentenced to 10 years in prison after being convicted of belonging to a terrorist group operating outside of Algeria. The sentence was handed down by the Criminal Court of Appeal in Algiers.
The public prosecutor had requested the 10-year sentence following an appeal. The initial trial at the Dar El Beida court had resulted in an acquittal. The case was reopened based on new evidence presented during the appeal process.
The arrest of (N.A.) occurred in May 2024 upon entering Algeria. Security services in Bejaia had received intelligence reports regarding suspicious activities potentially threatening national security. These reports indicated the individual’s involvement in demonstrations in France, where he was allegedly seen carrying the flag of the separatist group MAC. Furthermore, investigations suggested a close connection to Ferhat Mehenni, the leader of the movement.
Authorities claim (N.A.) received documents from Mehenni on several occasions with instructions to deliver them to MAC members within Algeria. This led security services to classify him as a high-risk individual, warranting thorough inspection upon entry into the country.
During the trial, (N.A.) denied all charges. He stated that he works as a truck driver for the Red Cross in France and that his participation in the protests was a one-time event where he carried the Amazigh flag, not the MAC flag. He also denied any personal relationship with Ferhat Mehenni and claimed he never received any documents or messages from him.
Regarding a video found on his phone showing him holding a hunting rifle, (N.A.) explained that the weapon is legally registered with French authorities and that he is a recreational hunter. The court now faces the task of reviewing all evidence and arguments presented before reaching a final verdict. The case remains open pending the court’s decision, representing a sensitive stage in reassessing the initial judgment.
