SIDI BEL ABBES – Authorities in Sidi Bel Abbes have dismantled a criminal network involved in fraudulently obtaining travel grants. The operation, conducted by the National Gendarmerie’s regional battalion in Ibn Badis, resulted in the arrest of eight individuals.
The investigation was launched following a complaint filed with the Sidi Dahou Zair territorial brigade, alleging that an individual was organizing trips abroad for the sole purpose of exploiting the exchange allowance system.
Acting on this information and in coordination with the Public Prosecutor at the Ibn Badis court, a thorough preliminary investigation was initiated. This investigation uncovered a criminal group operating within the region, offering and organizing tourist trips abroad. They allegedly handled all travel arrangements, including transportation and accommodation, in exchange for obtaining the travel grant, which is valued at 750 euros.
During the initial phase of the operation, the investigation team apprehended five individuals implicated in the scheme. Further investigation led to the arrest of three additional suspects.
The operation resulted in the seizure of 3,915 euros, 927,000 Algerian dinars, five mobile phones, and two money counting machines.
Following the completion of legal procedures, the suspects will be presented before the Public Prosecutor at the Ibn Badis court. They face charges including forming a criminal association with the intent to commit a felony of smuggling that poses a serious threat to the national economy, violating legislation and regulations related to foreign exchange and the movement of capital to and from abroad, and failing to repatriate funds to the country. The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes and protect the integrity of national economic resources. Authorities are reminding citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity related to fraudulent travel schemes.
