Algerian Authorities Uncover MAK Terrorist Network: 21 Arrested in Major Arms Smuggling Operation

✏️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | August 14th, 2024 — The investigating judge of the counter-terrorism and cross-border organized crime section at the Sidi M’Hamed Tribunal in Algiers has issued arrest warrants for 21 individuals, with two additional suspects currently abroad also facing arrest warrants. These individuals are accused of involvement in terrorist and subversive organizations, following a significant seizure of weapons and ammunition at the Port of Bejaia. The announcement was made by Sidali Bouzrina, the deputy public prosecutor of the tribunal.

The investigation began on August 4, when a routine customs check of passengers arriving aboard a foreign-flagged ship uncovered weapons hidden in a vehicle belonging to the primary suspect, Z.M., who was traveling with his wife, B.N. During a press conference, Bouzrina detailed that the customs inspection led to the discovery of 21 firearms, 2,000 live rounds of various calibers, projectiles, military-style clothing, knives, and stockpiles of cartridges.

Subsequent investigations, conducted by the judicial police services under the Directorate General of Internal Security (DGSI), revealed that the weapons and ammunition were clandestinely brought into Algeria from abroad. The operation was orchestrated by a smuggler working overseas in collaboration with a terrorist group led by individuals identified as Z.F. and L.L., who are also based abroad.

Bouzrina highlighted that an electronic search during the investigation uncovered communications between the primary suspect and leaders of terrorist organizations, confirming the suspect’s connection to these groups. Z.M. admitted to receiving calls from Marseille and acknowledged his affiliation with the terrorist organization. The investigation further revealed that Z.M. had been planning the operation since 2015, following instructions from the leaders of the terrorist organization known as ‘MAK,’ including members W.J. and A.K.

The operation was financed by leaders of terrorist organizations abroad, with the intention of inciting or committing terrorist acts within Algeria. The judicial police’s continued investigations led to the discovery of a garage on the outskirts of Bejaia, used for storing weapons and as a workshop for processing large quantities of arms for distribution through clandestine channels associated with the terrorist organization.

In addition to firearms and ammunition, the garage was found to contain sensitive equipment, such as GPS devices, lasers, and cameras. As of August 13, 2024, 21 suspects have been presented before the public prosecutor at the Sidi M’Hamed Tribunal’s counter-terrorism section. Meanwhile, 12 other suspects remain at large and are being actively pursued.

The charges against the suspects include belonging to and participating in terrorist and subversive organizations, as well as the possession, carrying, trafficking, and unauthorized importation of weapons, ammunition, and explosives. These charges fall under Article 87 bis of the Penal Code. The case underscores the ongoing efforts of Algerian authorities to combat terrorism and cross-border organized crime.

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