Algerian Army Foils Major Narcotics Smuggling Operations at Moroccan Border, Seizes Over 9 Quintals of Cannabis

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | November 13th, 2024 — In a series of successful operations between November 6 and 12, the Algerian People’s National Army (ANP), in collaboration with security services, thwarted multiple attempts to smuggle over 9 quintals of treated cannabis across the border from Morocco. These actions form part of Algeria’s broader and ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and organized crime, which have become a significant threat to national security.

According to the operational report released by the ANP on Wednesday, a total of 32 drug traffickers were arrested, and a substantial quantity of illegal substances was intercepted during coordinated operations across Algeria’s military regions. Specifically, the army seized 9 quintals and 81 kilograms of cannabis, along with 11.76 kilograms of cocaine and 116,824 psychotropic pills.

The report highlights that these operations were crucial in preventing the illicit drugs from entering Algeria, where the consequences of such trafficking would have far-reaching effects on public health and safety. The operations, carried out by combined ANP detachments, also resulted in the confiscation of other illegal goods, reinforcing the government’s commitment to dismantling the networks that support these criminal enterprises.

In addition to the drug seizures, significant progress was made in the fight against terrorism. The ANP successfully arrested 17 individuals accused of supporting terrorist groups across various regions of the country. The arrests took place in key locations, including Tamanrasset, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, In Guezzam, and Djanet, where the army also seized valuable materials used in illegal gold mining operations. Among the items confiscated were 120 individuals, 42 vehicles, 203 generators, 185 jackhammers, 7 metal detectors, explosives, detonating equipment, and gold ore mixtures.

Further operations resulted in the seizure of 20 more individuals and the confiscation of weapons, ammunition, and significant quantities of contraband goods, including 9 hunting rifles, 2 automatic pistols, 33,230 liters of fuel, 58 quintals of tobacco, and 63 tonnes of food products intended for black-market distribution. These measures are seen as vital in limiting the reach of both narcotics and terrorism, which have been exacerbated by regional instability.

The ANP also reported significant success in controlling irregular immigration. The Coast Guard intercepted several illegal boats attempting to transport migrants and managed to rescue 413 people from makeshift vessels. Additionally, 314 migrants of various nationalities were arrested as part of the broader effort to tackle illegal immigration, which continues to be a major challenge for the region.

This coordinated series of operations underscores Algeria’s strategic resolve to protect its national borders from external threats, including narcotics, terrorism, and illegal migration. With the continued efforts of the ANP and security services, these operations signal a robust response to criminal activity in the region.

 

 

 

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