National Security Foils Moroccan Criminal Network, 61 Individuals Apprehended
Algerian national security services have dismantled an international criminal network of Moroccan nationality operating within Algerian territory. This operation resulted in the apprehension of 61 individuals who were reportedly preparing to carry out acts of sabotage aimed at national security and public order. Initial investigations identified the group as a high-risk organized criminal network.
The Wilaya Judicial Police of Oran thwarted the criminal plot in early October, leading to the arrest of the 61 Moroccan nationals, including a former soldier from the Moroccan army. Investigations revealed that the suspects entered Algerian territory after flying to Tunis International Airport. They then utilized rugged mountain paths and isolated forest passages in the El Kala region of El Tarf Wilaya, near the Tunisian border, before traveling overland to Oran Wilaya to execute their destructive plans. The operation also led to the recovery of Moroccan passports and significant sums of Moroccan Dirham and Euro currencies. The arrested individuals have been presented before the Public Prosecutor at the specialized criminal pole in Oran.
These efforts highlight a broader commitment to national security. In related but separate operations during the first half of 2026, Algerian National People's Army units neutralized 23 terrorists and apprehended 147 individuals identified as support elements. These security actions also led to the recovery of 49 firearms of various types, along with substantial quantities of ammunition across the national territory.
Furthermore, the security services achieved significant results in combating organized crime. During the same period, 1,092 drug traffickers were arrested. Authorities successfully thwarted attempts to smuggle 156.5 quintals of processed cannabis across the border with Morocco and seized 730.46 kilograms of cocaine and 25.6 million psychotropic pills. Additionally, joint units of the National People's Army apprehended 9,065 irregular migrants of various nationalities throughout Algeria.
