Units of the People’s National Army conducted military operations across Algeria between 14 October and 20 October 2026 to target drug trafficking. During these deployments, personnel seized 296 kilograms of cannabis resin that had been smuggled from Morocco. The military also recovered 2,133,825 psychotropic pills intended for distribution. In addition to these substances, the forces confiscated one kilogram of cocaine. These seizures represent the total volume of illicit narcotics intercepted by the People’s National Army throughout the six-day operation.
Drug Trafficking Arrests and Seizures
People’s National Army personnel arrested 51 suspected drug traffickers during the operations conducted between 14 October and 20 October 2026. These individuals remain in custody following the nationwide security sweep. Separately, army units operating in the Sixth Military Region recovered a cache of military-grade weaponry during the deployment. The seized items included three submachine guns, four ammunition magazines, and 200 rounds of ammunition. These materials were discovered within the operational area of the Sixth Military Region as part of the broader effort to secure the territory against illicit activities. Military officials confirmed that the weapons and the detained suspects were processed according to established protocols following the conclusion of the six-day mission.
Crackdown on Illegal Gold Mining
People’s National Army units conducted operations against illegal gold mining activities in the southern provinces. Security forces arrested 137 individuals for their involvement in unauthorized extraction processes during the recent deployment. These detentions occurred across Tamanrasset, Bordj Badji Mokhtar, and In Guezzam. Military personnel processed the suspects following the conclusion of these operations in the designated areas. The actions are part of a broader effort by the Ministry of National Defence to secure regions where illegal mining operations have been identified. Authorities confirmed that the individuals remain in custody as the investigation into these activities proceeds according to established legal protocols.
Border Security and Migration Control
Algerian Coast Guard units intercepted 231 people travelling on makeshift boats during the recent security operations. These individuals were stopped while attempting to cross maritime borders. Separately, People’s National Army units apprehended 412 irregular migrants of various nationalities in different parts of the country. Military personnel conducted these detentions as part of ongoing efforts to monitor and control movement across Algerian territory. Authorities confirmed that all individuals encountered by the Coast Guard and army units were processed following their interception. These actions represent the total number of migrants encountered by security forces throughout the deployment period. The detained individuals remain in custody as investigations into their travel status continue in accordance with established national protocols.
