Algerian law enforcement dealt a significant blow to organized drug trafficking on Tuesday, August 19, after dismantling a criminal network operating in the country. Authorities confirmed that five suspects have been arrested, while three others remain at large.
The operation followed the arrest of two network members caught in possession of an exceptionally large haul. Police seized nearly 144 kilograms of ecstasy, equivalent to more than 235,000 tablets, along with 458 grams of cocaine.
These figures underscore the scale of the network’s operations and the potential threat posed to public health and safety.
The Sidi M’hamed court swiftly placed the five arrested individuals in custody, signalling a firm stance against narcotics trafficking. Authorities described the operation as a crucial step in curbing the influence of organized criminal networks in Algeria.
“This dismantling highlights the complexity of drug trafficking in Algeria, often linked to international channels and organised networks,” a senior official noted. “Authorities must not only dismantle these networks but also strengthen prevention and cross-border cooperation to limit the circulation of these substances.”
Despite the arrests, the three remaining suspects are still actively sought. Security forces are intensifying efforts to track them down and assess the network’s reach across other regions of the country.
The operation reflects the coordinated efforts of Algerian police and judicial authorities to safeguard urban centres and protect citizens from the dangers of narcotics. Analysts say that tackling such networks is essential not only for public health but also for regional stability, given the transnational links often involved in trafficking operations.
Officials emphasised that continued vigilance and international cooperation are critical in preventing future illicit activity and dismantling networks that threaten both security and public welfare.
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