ALGIERS – Algerian army detachments have thwarted attempts to smuggle over 2600 kilograms of processed cannabis (kif) into the country via the Moroccan border, DZWatch has learned. This operation is part of a broader effort to combat drug trafficking and organized crime across the nation.
According to a weekly operational report released by the Ministry of National Defense, joint detachments of the People’s National Army, in coordination with various security services, apprehended 59 drug traffickers during operations conducted across different military regions. In addition to the seized cannabis, authorities also confiscated 19 kilograms of cocaine and over 455,000 psychotropic tablets.
The army also reported the arrest of 10 individuals providing support to terrorist groups in separate operations nationwide. This highlights the ongoing commitment to counter-terrorism efforts alongside the fight against drug trafficking.
Furthermore, army detachments detained 276 individuals involved in illegal gold mining activities, seizing 28 vehicles, 299 generators, 221 pressure hammers, and 3 metal detectors. Quantities of raw gold and stones, along with equipment used in illicit gold prospecting, were also confiscated.
In other operations, 15 individuals were arrested, and a Kalashnikov machine gun, 5 hunting rifles, 6,570 liters of fuel, and 7.5 tons of food intended for smuggling and speculation were seized.
Meanwhile, the Coast Guard successfully intercepted illegal immigration attempts, rescuing 392 individuals aboard makeshift boats. Authorities also apprehended 351 illegal immigrants of various nationalities across the country. These operations underscore Algeria’s commitment to border security and combating transnational crime.
The Algerian army continues its unwavering efforts to safeguard the nation and combat all forms of criminal activity.
