Over 370 kg of Cocaine Seized as Algerian Forces Dismantle International Networks

Algerian security forces have intensified their nationwide offensive against transnational drug trafficking, seizing over 370 kilograms of cocaine in major operations conducted between October and early November.

In the latest major operation, the General Directorate of National Security announced that the Regional Crime Fighting Service in Oran successfully dismantled two transnational trafficking rings smuggling hard drugs from Morocco. The operation in western Algeria led to the arrest of 12 suspects, the seizure of 96 kg of cocaine, and the recovery of 14 vehicles, three motorcycles, and over 215 million centimes in cash, with total seizures valued at over 200 billion centimes. Investigations established that both syndicates were directed by kingpins operating from Morocco and Europe.

This crackdown aligns with a series of joint operations executed across the southern regions by the People's National Army, Police, and Customs services. Recent interceptions include 17.69 kg in El Menia, 69 kg in Tamanrasset by the BRI unit, and over 110 kg across separate operations in Tamanrasset and In Salah. Additionally, in early October, the General Directorate of Internal Security dismantled a heavily armed network, recovering 80.9 kg of cocaine along with an FMPK machine gun and Kalashnikov ammunition, underscoring the ongoing vigilance of Algerian security agencies against organized crime. These significant busts, achieved almost every week, demonstrate the continuous vigilance of security forces across all branches (Army, Police, and Customs) against drug trafficking.

Wissem Chergui