Algeria Takes Major Action Against Drug Trafficking

The Algerian police have delivered a significant blow to drug trafficking networks within the country by successfully dismantling a Moroccan-run operation that has been a serious concern for national security. This impressive operation, conducted by the Central Service for the Fight Against Illicit Drug Trafficking (SCLTIS), has resulted in the seizure of a historical quantity of psychotropic substances, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Algeria. In total, law enforcement officials have confiscated an astonishing 10.4 million psychotropic pills and arrested 25 individuals connected to the operation, including a foreign national and one woman.

Record-Breaking Seizures and Arrests

After an extensive seven-month investigation, authorities have successfully uncovered a vast international criminal network that was operating under the direction of Moroccan drug traffickers. These traffickers orchestrated their illicit activities from Morocco while relying on associates in Dubai for financial management and coordination. Furthermore, the investigation has revealed connections to accomplices based in France, which underscores the extensive nature of this drug trafficking operation. The sheer scale of the seizure is unprecedented, with the total estimated value of the confiscated substances and assets amounting to nearly 1 trillion Algerian Dinars, including 33.4 kilograms of hard drugs like cocaine.

In addition to the drugs, the operation has resulted in the confiscation of 19 vehicles used for trafficking, including a tanker truck and several motorcycles. The police have also seized over 1.5 billion Dinars in cash derived from criminal activities, highlighting the extensive financial operations linked to this network. The arrested individuals were presented to the public prosecutor on August 20, following their apprehension in various regions including Oran, Tizi Ouzou, Algiers, Blida, and Tipasa. This successful operation not only demonstrates the effectiveness of the Algerian police's intelligence efforts but also sends a strong message to drug traffickers operating within and beyond Algeria's borders.

As reported by tsa-algerie.com.