Algeria Declares Relentless War on Drug Trafficking Networks

✍️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Justice Minister Lotfi Boudjemaa affirms the State’s ironclad resolve to activate capital punishment and eradicate narco-criminality amid a growing national threat.

Algiers, Algeria | May 14th, 2025 —  Algeria has launched a determined and uncompromising offensive against drug trafficking networks that threaten national stability and social cohesion. During an address before the People’s National  Assembly (APN) on Tuesday, Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals, Lotfi Boudjemaa, declared that the Algerian State is fully committed to waging a relentless war against criminal drug gangs.

“The situation is serious—akin to an act of war against Algeria,” Boudjemaa warned, emphasizing that the State will rely on its “loyal security forces and the National People’s Army (ANP)” to dismantle these networks. He assured lawmakers that “justice will be uncompromising and will eradicate the scourge.”

Legal Overhaul and Capital Punishment Activation

The Minister underscored the urgency behind the swift amendment of Algeria’s anti-drug and psychotropic substances law, citing the alarming spread of narcotics and psychotropics in various regions. He stressed that coercive legal measures are now imperative to halt this criminal tide.

In a significant policy shift, Boudjemaa confirmed that Algeria has opted to activate the death penalty in response to the gravity of the threat. “As a sovereign state, Algeria reserves the right to adopt any measures it deems appropriate to combat crime,” he declared. “The current crisis warrants the activation of capital punishment.”

Rehabilitation and Detection Measures

Boudjemaa also addressed a proposal to require negative drug test results from candidates applying for public recruitment exams. He explained that the purpose of this measure is to ensure early detection and treatment of addiction cases. In line with this policy, he announced that every wilaya in the country already has at least one drug rehabilitation center, and that four additional modern centers will soon be built, following directives from President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Incentives for Whistleblowers and Institutional Accountability

Touching on the introduction of financial rewards for whistleblowers, the Minister noted that Algeria is the first Arab country to adopt such a provision. He clarified that rewards will only be granted for information leading to tangible results, warning that false accusations will be met with full legal liability.

He also addressed provisions allowing for the closure of establishments—particularly hotels—that serve as hubs for drug trafficking. The law targets property owners or managers who knowingly facilitate such criminal activities.

Criminalizing Incitement and Combatting Disinformation

Minister Boudjemaa reaffirmed that any form of incitement to drug use, whether through song or other mediums, constitutes a criminal offense punishable by law. He also urged the public and media to exercise caution regarding unverified information, stating that official updates on ongoing investigations are issued exclusively by public prosecutors.

Clarification on Viral Rumors and Ongoing Cases

Responding to recent social media reports regarding the alleged rape of 40 children in Oran and the arrest of a ministry employee for drug possession, Boudjemaa offered clarifications. He stated that the first case involves one suspect currently under judicial investigation and that, to date, only one confirmed case of sexual assault is under review.

Regarding the second incident, the Minister confirmed that the accused—a ministry driver—was found in possession of 79 grams of narcotics and two mobile phones, but emphasized that the individual was apprehended in his private vehicle, contrary to circulating claims.

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