The body of Algerian firefighter Mohamed Achour was recovered on Wednesday morning, after an 18-day search effort in the Bouira region. Achour had been swept away by floodwaters on January 24. The search operation, which involved firefighters, divers, and volunteers, was concentrated in the Oued D'hous area, where the body was finally located under a thick layer of mud and debris.
According to Captain Nassim Bernaoui, the recovery of Achour's body brought a sense of relief to the search team. Bernaoui expressed gratitude to all parties involved in the search operation, including the Minister of Interior, the Minister of National Solidarity, local authorities, and volunteers from across the country. He described the recovery of Achour's body as a moment of great emotion, allowing for a dignified burial.
The search operation was extensive, covering over 30 kilometers of terrain, and involved numerous volunteers and members of civil society. The effort was supported by the local population, who showed solidarity with the family of the deceased firefighter. The body was recovered near a wastewater drainage outlet, just 100 meters from where the search operation was concentrated.
After recovery, Achour's body was taken to the Mohamed Boudiaf hospital in Bouira for identification purposes. Although his clothing and equipment identified him as a member of the Civil Protection service, an autopsy was still conducted. The Wali (Governor) of Bouira attended the autopsy to confirm the identification.
News of the body's recovery spread rapidly through the region, and volunteers who had been involved in the search effort gathered at the hospital to verify the news. Local authorities expressed condolences to Achour's family and thanked all participants in the search operation for their efforts over the past 18 days.
The burial of Mohamed Achour is scheduled to take place after the autopsy results are released, in the presence of officials, members of the Civil Protection service, and volunteers from across the country. The Minister of Interior is also expected to attend the funeral, according to a communiqué from the Bouira Wilaya.
The recovery of Achour's body marks the end of an extensive search operation that engaged multiple parties and resources. The incident highlights the risks faced by emergency responders in the line of duty and the importance of community solidarity in times of crisis.
Key points
- The body of Algerian firefighter Mohamed Achour was recovered after an 18-day search effort in the Bouira region.
- The search operation involved firefighters, divers, and volunteers from across the country.
- The burial of Mohamed Achour is scheduled to take place after the autopsy results are released, in the presence of officials and volunteers.
