Algerian authorities have made a significant seizure of Captagon pills, a type of psychotropic substance, as part of an ongoing investigation into an organized crime group. According to a statement from the prosecutor's office, 10 suspects were arrested and 2.4 million pills were seized. The arrests were made after an initial investigation uncovered an organized crime group consisting of 15 individuals.
The suspects, aged between 23 and 44, were taken into custody after being caught in possession of the large quantity of Captagon pills. The group is believed to have been involved in the importation, transportation, and storage of the pills with the intention of selling them. The prosecutor's office stated that the suspects were charged with crimes including the illegal importation and sale of psychotropic substances.
The investigation, led by the National Judicial Pole for the Fight Against Terrorism and Organized Crime, resulted in the arrest of 10 suspects, while five others remain at large. The suspects were identified as Merrabet Rachid, 44, Tawil Hussein, 37, Ghazal Nabil, 32, Ghazal Fouad, 29, Tawil Nesim, 39, Ben Azziza Mohamed, 37, Ben Azziza Akram, 26, Tifoura Ossama, 31, Essnen Ziadeh, 23, and Ghربي Idris, 44.
The seized Captagon pills, valued at millions of dollars, were found to be of the type known as "Briquabaline 300mg". The prosecutor's office stated that the suspects were involved in a transnational organized crime group that aimed to undermine national security and create a climate of insecurity.
After being questioned by investigators, the suspects were brought before the prosecutor's office, where they were formally charged with crimes including the illegal trade of psychotropic substances and money laundering. The prosecutor's office sought to have the suspects remanded in custody, which was granted by the investigating judge.
The investigating judge issued orders for the 10 suspects to be held in provisional detention, following their interrogation. The suspects are now facing serious charges, including undermining national security and public order. The authorities have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with efforts focused on apprehending the remaining suspects who are still at large.
The successful seizure and arrests demonstrate the Algerian authorities' commitment to combating organized crime and disrupting the trade in psychotropic substances. The case highlights the significant threat posed by such groups to national security and public health.
Key points
- 2.4 million Captagon pills were seized from the suspects.
- 10 suspects were arrested and charged with crimes including the illegal trade of psychotropic substances.
- The investigation is ongoing, with five suspects still at large.
