Algerian Minister Praises National Security Achievements

Algerian Interior Minister Brahim Merad has praised the Sûreté nationale's achievements in dismantling organized and transnational criminal networks. At a national meeting of high-ranking Sûreté nationale officials, Merad commended the police force's commitment and professionalism. He noted that the results achieved in recent years demonstrate the efforts made by the institution. The meeting, held at the Ali-Tounsi Police Academy in Algiers, focused on evaluating the institution and its development prospects.

Merad specifically highlighted operations against transnational organized crime networks specializing in illicit drug and psychotropic substance trafficking. He also acknowledged interventions that thwarted foreign networks attempting to compromise national security. Furthermore, Merad emphasized the role of police services in raising awareness among citizens. The minister recalled President Abdelmadjid Tebboune's particular attention to the Sûreté nationale, including the reinforcement of its resources and adaptation of its organization to operational requirements.

Merad mentioned the revision of regulatory texts governing the institution and financial allocations for its functioning, logistics, and human resource development. The territorial deployment of the police was also discussed. Merad announced the appointment of sûreté chiefs for new wilayas and the completion of security structures in 69 wilayas. This expansion reflects the state's commitment to strengthening the Sûreté nationale's presence and extending its deployment across the country.

The minister stated that this territorial network enhances crime prevention and control. He also welcomed the Sûreté nationale's adoption of presidential guidelines for modernizing public sectors and generalizing digital and modern technologies. Merad cited applications developed for submitting reports and complaints, which promote public service and transparency. The minister highlighted the police's crucial role in supporting public authorities' decision-making processes through modern methods and tools.

Sûreté nationale Director-General Ali Badaoui reaffirmed the institution's commitment to fighting crime and protecting citizens. He presented a report on the first ten months of 2026, revealing the seizure of 874 kg of cocaine, over 5.8 tons of cannabis, and nearly 31 million psychotropic tablets. During this period, police services handled 194,000 cases involving over 210,000 individuals, including 44,000 cases related to narcotics trafficking.

Badaoui attributed these results to the collective professional work of police forces and called on officers to maintain best practices and preserve achievements. He also addressed the upcoming local elections scheduled for November 28, assuring that all necessary measures have been taken to ensure their smooth conduct. The director-general emphasized the importance of continued efforts to combat organized crime and cybercrime.

The Sûreté nationale's efforts have led to significant achievements, including the dismantling of three organized networks specializing in cybercrime and the handling of over 8,000 cybercrime cases involving more than 9,600 individuals. Merad concluded by highlighting the excellent coordination and complementarity between the Sûreté nationale, the National People's Army, and other security forces.

Key points

• The Sûreté nationale has seized 874 kg of cocaine, over 5.8 tons of cannabis, and nearly 31 million psychotropic tablets in the first ten months of 2026.
• The Algerian government has reinforced the Sûreté nationale's resources and adapted its organization to operational requirements.
• The police force has handled 194,000 cases involving over 210,000 individuals in the first ten months of 2026.