In response to a dramatic rise in forest fires across the country, Algerian authorities have announced a sweeping crackdown aimed at deterring arson, with life imprisonment now being enforced as the maximum penalty for those found guilty of deliberately starting wildfires.
The decision, unveiled by the General Directorate of Forests, comes as Algeria continues to grapple with devastating summer fires that have destroyed forests, displaced residents, and claimed lives.
According to the news outlet Algérie360, this reinforced policy marks a shift towards more aggressive prevention, combining strict punitive measures with advanced surveillance.
“This maximum penalty is part of existing legislation, but it is rarely applied with such rigor. The message is therefore unequivocal: arson will no longer be tolerated,” the Directorate said, signalling a zero-tolerance stance amid worsening fire seasons linked to both climate conditions and human activity.
The government’s 2025 wildfire strategy includes bolstering early detection systems and expanding surveillance in areas most at risk. High-tech tools, including aerial monitoring and rapid response units, will be deployed to contain fires before they escalate.
In recent years, Algeria has suffered significant losses due to forest fires, both human and environmental. The 2021 wildfires, which killed civilians and firefighters alike, sparked national mourning and raised alarm over the scale of the crisis.
“Every summer, Algeria faces dozens of fires that ravage its forests and threaten entire villages,” the statement emphasized, noting that many blazes are suspected to be of criminal origin.
Authorities say the initiative is not only punitive but also preventative. They aim to foster a culture of environmental responsibility among citizens while ensuring that those who endanger public safety through arson face the full force of the law.
As the Maghreb region continues to face the growing impact of climate change, Algeria’s hardline stance may serve as a model for others confronting similar environmental threats.
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