The Algerian authorities have stepped up their efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse, with the National Gendarmerie seizing nearly 11 tons of processed cannabis, 837 kilograms of cocaine, and over 13 million pills in the past 10 months. According to National Gendarmerie Commander, General Ali Sidane, these seizures are part of a broader strategy to tackle the growing threat of drug trafficking and abuse in the country. The issue has become a major concern, with implications for public health, road safety, economic security, and social stability.
General Sidane emphasized that the phenomenon of drug trafficking and abuse has become a multidimensional security challenge, with far-reaching consequences for the country. He noted that the issue is no longer limited to a specific region or community, but has become a transnational problem that requires a coordinated response. The authorities have identified the need for a comprehensive approach that involves not only law enforcement but also prevention, awareness-raising, and community engagement.
The National Gendarmerie has been working to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks, with 25218 people arrested and 5264 detained in the past 10 months. The authorities have also identified and dismantled 186 networks specializing in the trafficking of drugs and psychotropic substances. General Sidane highlighted the importance of international cooperation in combating drug trafficking, given the global nature of the problem.
The issue of drug abuse and road safety is also a major concern, with 154 positive tests recorded out of 9167 tests conducted by the National Gendarmerie in 2026. The authorities have reported 161 fatal accidents and 144 non-fatal accidents caused by drivers under the influence of drugs or psychotropic substances. General Sidane stressed the need for enhanced monitoring and awareness-raising efforts to prevent such accidents.
To address the issue, the authorities are working to strengthen monitoring and detection capabilities, as well as to develop new strategies for prevention and awareness-raising. General Sidane emphasized the importance of community engagement and cooperation in combating drug trafficking and abuse. The National Gendarmerie is working closely with other agencies, including law enforcement, health, and education authorities.
The authorities are also working to address the root causes of drug abuse, including social and economic factors. General Sidane noted that the issue is closely linked to organized crime and that a comprehensive approach is needed to tackle it. The National Gendarmerie is working to enhance its capabilities and to develop new strategies for combating drug trafficking and abuse.
The work of the National Gendarmerie in combating drug trafficking and abuse has been recognized as crucial in the fight against this phenomenon. The authorities are working to build on this momentum and to continue to make progress in addressing the issue. KEY_POINT: The Algerian authorities have seized large quantities of drugs and psychotropic substances in the past 10 months. KEY_POINT: The issue of drug abuse and road safety is a major concern, with many accidents caused by drivers under the influence. KEY_POINT: The authorities are working to strengthen monitoring and detection capabilities, as well as to develop new strategies for prevention and awareness-raising.
