Algerian authorities have dismantled an organized crime group consisting of 23 individuals, including a Malian national, in Tamanrasset. The group was busted by the Regional Judicial Police Service of the General Directorate of Internal Security (DGSI). According to a statement released by the Public Prosecutor's Office near the National Penal Pole for Combating Terrorism and Transnational Organized Crime, the operation was the result of a preliminary investigation.
The investigation led to the seizure of 80.9 kilograms of cocaine from the individuals apprehended. Additionally, authorities confiscated a firearm, type FMPK, with 365 cartridges of 7.62×54 mm caliber, and four magazines for Kalachnikov-type rifles containing 120 cartridges. Three members of the group were caught in the act: Lansari Baraka, 27, Mehri Abdallah, 26, and Lansari Idoua, 22, a Malian national.
The suspects were presented before the Public Prosecutor's Office and charged with multiple crimes, including importing, transporting, loading, storing, and illegally possessing narcotics for sale as part of a transnational organized crime group. The alleged crimes also involve acts that threaten national security and public order, as well as terrorist and subversive acts aimed at the state's security and national unity.
The accused are also charged with carrying and transporting category-one firearms and ammunition without authorization and money laundering as part of a criminal organization. Following interrogation by the investigating judge, they were ordered to be held in provisional detention. The authorities have identified the remaining 20 members of the group, who are currently at large.
The dismantling of the organized crime group is a significant achievement for Algerian law enforcement. The large quantity of cocaine seized indicates the scale of the group's operations. Authorities are working to apprehend the fugitive members of the group.
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of Algerian authorities to combat organized crime and terrorism. The judicial process will continue, with the aim of bringing those responsible to justice. The authorities have not disclosed further details about the investigation.
The successful operation demonstrates the effectiveness of cooperation between law enforcement agencies in Algeria. The seizure of the large quantity of cocaine and firearms has likely disrupted a significant narcotics trafficking network.
Key points
- 80.9 kilograms of cocaine were seized from an organized crime group in Tamanrasset.
- The group consisted of 23 individuals, including a Malian national.
- The suspects were charged with multiple crimes, including narcotics trafficking and terrorism-related offenses.
