Security forces dismantled a money laundering ring in the Fifth Military Region on Saturday, November 7, 2026. The Ministry of National Defense confirmed the operation successfully targeted illicit financial networks operating within Algerian territory. This strategic intervention was executed with precision to ensure the neutralization of the criminal infrastructure. Eight individuals were arrested during the operation. Authorities apprehended the suspects as part of an effort to disrupt illegal fund transfers linked to the group. These detainees remain in custody as the Ministry of National Defense continues its investigation into the dismantled network's activities. The investigation is focused on mapping the full scope of the financial operations managed by the arrested individuals.
Seizure of Illegal Assets
Security forces recovered significant financial assets during the operation conducted on 7 November 2026. Official records indicate that authorities seized approximately 5 billion Algerian centimes in national currency from the suspects. This seizure represents a substantial portion of the capital the network utilized to facilitate its illicit financial maneuvers.
The recovery operation also involved the confiscation of 45,125 euros found during the raids. Alongside these funds, security personnel secured various other foreign currencies held by the individuals arrested. The presence of these diverse currencies suggests a complex mechanism for moving assets across borders. The Ministry of National Defense maintains custody of these seized assets as part of the ongoing investigation into the illegal financial network. Every item recovered is being cataloged by the Ministry of National Defense to ensure a full evidentiary record is established for future legal proceedings.
Confiscation of Gold and Equipment
Security forces confiscated 1.861 kilograms of gold from the suspects during the operation on 7 November 2026. The acquisition of such a significant quantity of precious metal indicates the methods the group employed to store value outside of traditional banking systems. The Ministry of National Defense holds the gold as part of the evidence collected during the dismantling of the financial network.
Personnel also secured physical property linked to the illicit activities. Authorities seized eight tourist vehicles and four hunting rifles found in the possession of the individuals arrested. These physical assets were identified by the security forces as being integral to the operations of the group. The Ministry of National Defense confirmed that these items remain in official custody while the investigation continues. The inclusion of hunting rifles and multiple vehicles points to the logistical capabilities the network maintained to support its illicit activities. The Ministry of National Defense is currently analyzing these materials to determine how they were integrated into the broader laundering scheme. Authorities emphasize that the process of securing these assets is a critical component of the broader effort to dismantle the financial network entirely. The investigation into the eight individuals remains a priority for the Ministry of National Defense as they work to finalize their report on the events of November 7, 2026.
