Algiers, December 30, 2025 – A man serving a life sentence has been apprehended in connection with a major drug trafficking operation, authorities announced today. The arrest was made possible by the collaborative efforts of the National Gendarmerie’s Central Operational Service for Combating Organized Crime, specifically the department dedicated to combating drugs and psychotropic substances.
During the operation, law enforcement officials seized 87 kilograms of processed cannabis (kif) and 120 psychotropic tablets. According to a statement released by the National Gendarmerie, the operation successfully dismantled an organized criminal network involved in the illegal trafficking of drugs and psychotropic substances.
The network’s activities reportedly originated in the western Algerian border regions, extending to other networks operating in the central and eastern parts of the country. Investigations revealed that the arrested individual, already serving a life sentence for similar offenses, was a key figure within this network. He allegedly used forged documents and assumed false identities to evade capture. Furthermore, authorities believe he had direct connections with foreign suppliers.
The investigation also led to the arrest of two additional individuals and the identification of five more suspects who are currently at large. In addition to the drugs, authorities confiscated four vehicles used in the commission of the crimes, various bladed weapons, mobile phones, and forged official documents.
The arrested individuals have been presented before the specialized prosecutor at the National Penal Pole for Combating Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime. This successful operation marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to combat drug trafficking and organized crime within Algeria.
