Algeria and Tunisia bust record ecstasy trafficking networks
Algerian authorities announced on April 28 the seizure of 1.65 million ecstasy pills valued at nearly 30 million dollars, calling it the “largest quantity of such drugs ever seized in Africa,” according to the Arab Weekly plus agencies. The bust, which led to the arrest of nine suspects, closely tails Tunisia’s reported dismantling of a major trafficking network just days earlier.
Police revealed that the pills were hidden in a truck that arrived from Marseille as part of an international criminal network operating between France and Morocco. The network extended to several Algerian cities, including Blida, Tipaza, and the capital, Algiers.
The statement, carried by state television, said that aside from the massive haul, several vehicles and large amounts of cash believed to be “proceeds from criminal activity” were seized.
While the nationalities of the suspects have not been disclosed, they have been referred to prosecutors on charges of international drug trafficking and money laundering within a cross-border criminal group.
Tunisia reported a similar interception in its southwestern province of Gafsa, arresting six individuals. Authorities seized over 1.2 million pills meant for domestic distribution in what was described as the largest narcotics seizure in Tunisian history, and one of the largest operations in the world according to international statistics.
Tunisian authorities have also alleged that the ecstasy was intended for distribution “in educational, youth, and student circles”. Algeria’s fears that a similar trend will play out domestically are reflected in President Tebboune’s requests for specialized penal institutions for drug-related crimes.
While the recent crackdowns reflect both Tunis and Algiers’ commitment to combat drug trafficking, the scale of recent events highlights a significant problem in North Africa, with the region serving as a transit point for drugs moving from production centers in Africa and South America toward Europe and the Middle East. As governments continue their crackdowns, they must reckon with increased demands and shifting smuggling routes.
Arab Weekly/agencies, Maghrebi
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