Algerian Territorial Waters Violation: Algerian Defense Ministry Provides Clarifications on Recent Incident
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- In a press release issued this Sunday, the Ministry of National Defense (MDN) shed light on the incident that unfolded on August 29, 2023. Three jet-skis illegally entered Algerian national territorial waters, prompting a swift response from the nation’s defense forces. The incident occurred in the second military region, situated in the western part of the country, near the wilaya of Tlemcen.
According to the official press release, national navy units detected the unauthorized entry of three jet-skis at approximately 7:47 p.m. The MDN reported that multiple audible warnings were issued to the jet-ski operators in an attempt to halt their progress. Regrettably, the operators ignored these warnings and proceeded to engage in dangerous maneuvers within the region.
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Considering the sensitive nature of the maritime and border region and the high activity of criminal and smuggling groups in the area, coast guard personnel resorted to firing warning shots. Despite several attempts to bring the situation under control through non-lethal means, the coast guards were eventually compelled to use lethal force, leading to the immobilization of one of the jet-skis, while the remaining two fled the scene.
Furthermore, the MDN disclosed that during a coast guard patrol conducted on Wednesday, August 30, around 5 p.m., an unidentified deceased individual was discovered. The individual had sustained gunshot wounds and was promptly transported to the Tlemcen hospital morgue for further investigation.
In light of these developments, the Ministry of National Defense issued a call to action to the national media, Internet users, and all citizens. They urged them to exercise caution and discretion in their reception and dissemination of information related to the incident. The MDN emphasized the importance of avoiding the spread of incorrect or misleading information, as such actions may tarnish the honorable image of the People’s National Army.
The MDN remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of Algeria’s territorial waters and borders. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the nation’s defense forces in safeguarding its maritime boundaries and maintaining law and order in border regions.
