Algeria's Ministry of National Defense released the operational results of the National People's Army for the period spanning July 15 to July 21, 2026. The Ministry’s announcement detailed a full overview of the security operations conducted throughout the country, noting significant achievements across various domains. The report detailed various successes, including significant anti-drug operations conducted across Algeria's military regions. During this timeframe, Algerian forces seized a total of 134.13 kilograms of cocaine, demonstrating the ongoing vigilance against illicit substances. The Ministry's announcement comes as part of its regular updates on military activities and security efforts aimed at combating terrorism and drug trafficking within the country, as well as addressing other forms of organized crime such as smuggling and illegal immigration. These operations are a testament to the National People's Army's unwavering commitment to maintaining national security and stability, protecting citizens, and safeguarding the country’s borders.
Counter-Terrorism Efforts Intensify
Algerian military authorities reported a notable success in their counter-terrorism efforts, announcing that a terrorist identified as ع.ع المكنى “أحمد” surrendered in برج باجي مختار, located within the Sixth Military Region. This surrender represents a significant development in the ongoing campaign against armed groups. The individual was found to be in possession of a Kalashnikov submachine gun and ammunition upon his surrender, showing the potential threat neutralized by this action. Separately, security operations conducted nationwide resulted in the arrest of four individuals accused of providing support to terrorist groups. These arrests were made possible through intelligence gathering and coordinated efforts across different military regions. During these operations, Algerian forces seized a total of seven submachine guns, alongside one automatic pistol and two hunting rifles. The confiscation of these weapons significantly disrupts the operational capabilities of terrorist networks. These actions show the ongoing efforts by the Algerian National People's Army to combat terrorism across the country, aiming to dismantle support networks and prevent violent acts. The Ministry of National Defense continues to emphasize the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in ensuring the safety and security of the Algerian populace.
Major Drug Seizures and Trafficker Arrests
Joint detachments of the Algerian National People's Army (ANP), working in coordination with security services, achieved significant breakthroughs in the fight against drug trafficking, arresting 28 drug traffickers during the reporting period. These arrests targeted key figures involved in the illicit drug trade, disrupting their operations and supply chains. These operations formed part of broader efforts to combat narcotics distribution across Algeria, which has seen a surge in cross-border smuggling attempts.
Security forces also reported the seizure of a substantial quantity of illicit substances, including 1,098,445 hallucinogenic pills across various military regions. This large seizure prevents a considerable amount of harmful drugs from reaching communities. Additionally, the forces confiscated 134.13 kilograms of cocaine, further illustrating the scale of the drug problem being addressed. Authorities have emphasized the significant impact of such seizures on disrupting drug supply networks within the country, thereby protecting public health and safety.
Additionally, an attempt to smuggle 100 kilograms and 1 kilogram of processed cannabis was thwarted. This interdiction occurred along the western border with Morocco, preventing the illicit substances from entering Algerian territory. The successful interception notes the effectiveness of border surveillance and inter-agency cooperation in combating drug smuggling. These ongoing efforts reflect the ANP's determination to eradicate drug trafficking and its associated criminal activities.
Combating Smuggling and Illegal Immigration
Algerian coast guards foiled several attempts at clandestine sea departures during the reporting period, intercepting individuals attempting to illegally cross maritime borders. These operations are key in preventing loss of life at sea and curbing organized human trafficking. Across the country, authorities arrested 322 illegal immigrants of various nationalities, demonstrating a nationwide effort to control irregular migration flows. These individuals were apprehended during various land and sea operations aimed at securing national borders.
In operations targeting illegal gold prospecting, a significant number of individuals were apprehended. A total of 737 individuals were arrested in these operations, which primarily took place in remote desert areas. Forces seized 11 vehicles, 329 electric generators, and 76 pressure hammers from these illegal gold prospecting activities, along with quantities of gold ore mixture and stones. The confiscation of this equipment deals a blow to illegal mining operations that often exploit natural resources and harm the environment. Separately, 7 individuals were arrested in other operations related to various illicit activities. Authorities also confiscated 23,230 liters of fuel and 8 tons of food items destined for smuggling. These seizures disrupt criminal networks that attempt to illicitly transport goods across borders, often depriving local markets of essential commodities. Additionally, 618 individuals were rescued aboard makeshift boats, according to the Ministry of National Defense, showing the humanitarian aspect of the coast guard's operations in preventing maritime tragedies. These full operations across all military regions reflect the Algerian National People's Army's multi-faceted approach to ensuring national security and combating all forms of organized crime.
