The Algerian National Security announced on October 31, 2026, that its Brigade de recherche et d’intervention (BRI) unit had seized 69kg of cocaine and arrested two individuals suspected of being part of an organized crime network specializing in drug trafficking. According to the security forces, the suspects were planning to transport the cocaine from a southern province to the north of the country.
The operation involved intercepting a refrigerated truck used to transport the cocaine, with the narcotics hidden in various parts of the vehicle's structure. In addition to the cocaine, authorities recovered 410 million Algerian dinars (approximately $3,700 USD) in cash and a utility vehicle linked to the suspected network. The two suspects were presented before the prosecutor of the Republic near the specialized penal pole in Ouargla.
The seizure is part of a broader effort by Algerian authorities to combat drug trafficking, which remains a significant security concern in the country. In 2025, Algerian services reported record seizures of cocaine, cannabis, and psychotropic pills. The Office national de lutte contre la drogue et la toxicomanie (ONLCDT) reported that 37.239 tonnes of cannabis, 1,461.905kg of cocaine, and 2.037kg of heroin were seized in 2025.
The ONLCDT also reported that 43,413,420 psychotropic pills were seized in 2025, highlighting the significant trafficking of diverted medicinal substances. The large quantities seized demonstrate the scope of operations carried out across the national territory to intercept illicit shipments and dismantle involved networks.
Algeria's efforts to combat drug trafficking involve multiple agencies, including the Armée nationale populaire (ANP) and the Douanes. In 2025, ANP units arrested 2,354 narcotraffickers and seized 934kg of cocaine, 35 tonnes of processed kif, and 40 million psychotropic pills. Meanwhile, Douanes services recorded the seizure of 9.87 tonnes of processed kif, 728.3kg of cocaine, and over 16.5 million psychotropic pills.
To address the persistence of drug trafficking, Algeria has established a national strategy for 2025-2029 to combat the trafficking of drugs and psychotropic substances. This approach focuses on strengthening control operations, inter-service coordination, and adapting means to combat criminal networks. Prevention and awareness, particularly among young people, as well as support for individuals affected by drug consumption, are also prioritized.
The national strategy aims to reduce the circulation of illicit substances and limit their impact on society. Beyond seizures and arrests, authorities aim to address the root causes of drug trafficking and provide support to those affected by it. Algeria's efforts to combat drug trafficking are ongoing, with multiple agencies working together to disrupt and dismantle organized crime networks.
Key points
- Algerian police seized 69kg of cocaine hidden in a refrigerated truck and arrested two suspects in a major drug trafficking operation.
- In 2025, Algerian authorities reported record seizures of cocaine, cannabis, and psychotropic pills, including 37.239 tonnes of cannabis and 1,461.905kg of cocaine.
- Algeria has established a national strategy for 2025-2029 to combat drug trafficking, focusing on strengthened control operations, inter-service coordination, and support for those affected by drug consumption.
