The Algerian military has adopted a zero-tolerance policy towards clandestine gold prospectors. On Saturday, November 14, 2026, a foreign national attempting to prospect for gold in the El Hnak area of Gara Djebilet, near the Algerian-Moroccan border, was killed by the Algerian People's National Army (ANP). According to the Ministry of National Defense, the individual refused to comply with stop orders and attempted to flee.
The operation resulted in the seizure of a four-wheel-drive vehicle and equipment used for gold prospecting. This incident highlights the Algerian military's efforts to combat organized crime and protect the country's natural resources. The Ministry of National Defense emphasized that these operations demonstrate the ANP's determination to prevent such illicit practices.
This is not an isolated incident. On October 12, 2026, the ANP killed three other gold prospectors in the same region. In its weekly report for November 4-10, the Ministry of National Defense stated that 284 individuals were arrested and significant quantities of equipment were seized in various locations, including Tamanrasset, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, In Salah, In Guezzam, and Illizi.
The seized equipment included 22 vehicles, 83 generators, 45 pickaxes, three metal detectors, and quantities of raw gold and stones. These operations reflect the Algerian military's ongoing efforts to combat clandestine gold prospecting and protect the country's resources. The authorities have warned that they will continue to take a firm stance against such activities.
In a related development, a narcotrafficker was killed and three others were arrested on Friday, November 13, 2026, in Tamanrasset. The authorities seized 46.5 kilograms of cocaine, loaded into three vehicles, as well as a motorcycle and mobile phones. These operations demonstrate the Algerian military's commitment to combating various forms of organized crime.
The Algerian government has been working to strengthen its border controls and prevent the smuggling of goods and people. The country's military has been actively engaged in efforts to combat terrorism, smuggling, and other forms of organized crime. The recent incidents highlight the challenges faced by the authorities in maintaining security in the region.
The situation remains a concern for the Algerian authorities, who are working to balance the need to protect the country's resources with the need to ensure the safety of its citizens. The government has called for international cooperation to address these issues, which are often linked to broader regional and global security challenges.
Key points
- The Algerian military killed a foreign national attempting to prospect for gold in the El Hnak area of Gara Djebilet, near the Algerian-Moroccan border.
- 284 individuals were arrested and significant quantities of equipment were seized in various locations between November 4-10.
- A narcotrafficker was killed and three others were arrested in Tamanrasset on November 13, with 46.5 kilograms of cocaine seized.
