Weekly report of Algerian Army: Twelve terrorists’ supporting elements arrested
BY: Hana Saada
ALGIERS- During the period from May 10 to 16, 2023, the People’s National Army (ANP) carried out a series of qualitative operations in the fight against terrorism and organized crime. According to a press release from the Ministry of National Defense, ANP detachments arrested 12 terrorists’ supporting elements in various operations and discovered and destroyed a casemate and two homemade bombs in Boumerdès and Biskra.
In addition to these anti-terrorism efforts, the ANP also made significant strides in combating drug trafficking and organized crime. The same report states that 34 drug traffickers were arrested and 6 quintals and 40 kilograms of treated hashish were seized from the borders with Morocco, along with 208,021 psychotropic tablets.
The ANP’s efforts to combat organized crime also resulted in the arrest of 902 individuals in Tamanrasset, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, and In Guezzam. These operations led to the seizure of 35 vehicles, 282 generators, 197 jackhammers, and 14 metal detectors, as well as quantities of explosives, detonation tools, and equipment used in illicit gold panning operations.
Furthermore, ANP units and detachments arrested 13 other individuals and recovered 2 Kalashnikov-type submachine guns and 7 hunting rifles. Separate operations across the national territory also resulted in the recovery of 25 tons of foodstuffs, 14 quintals of tobacco, and 6850 units of various drinks intended for smuggling and speculation.
Finally, the Border Guards, in coordination with the National Gendarmerie and Customs Services, thwarted attempts to smuggle quantities of fuel amounting to 15,445 liters in Adrar, Tébessa, Souk Ahras, and El-Tarf.
The Ministry’s press release reports that the Coast Guard has successfully prevented illegal emigration attempts along our national coasts. Additionally, they have rescued 20 individuals who were aboard craft-made boats. Furthermore, the Coast Guard has arrested 92 illegal immigrants of various nationalities across the national territory. These efforts have been instrumental in maintaining the safety and security of our borders.
