National Gendarmerie Dismantles Fiat Doblo Price Gouging Ring in Algiers

✍️ BY: Dr. Hana Saada

In a sweeping crackdown on illicit speculation, Algeria’s National Gendarmerie in Bir Mourad Raïs arrests four suspects—including a certified dealership owner—for unlawful profiteering in locally-manufactured Fiat vehicles.

Algiers, Algeria | May 15th, 2025 —  In a decisive operation targeting illegal speculation in the automobile market, the National Gendarmerie in Bir Mourad Raïs successfully dismantled a criminal network engaged in unlawful price manipulation of Fiat Doblo Panorama vehicles, manufactured locally in Algeria.

The investigation was launched after cybercrime investigators from the Gendarmerie Command detected an online advertisement offering a Fiat Doblo Panorama for a staggering 5.05 million Algerian dinars (505 million centimes)—a price far exceeding regulated market values. This prompted the Search and Investigation Division in Bir Mourad Raïs to initiate a thorough probe under the supervision of the Public Prosecutor at the Court of Bir Mourad Raïs.

Utilizing advanced technical and digital surveillance tools, investigators tracked down and arrested four individuals involved in the illegal scheme, including the owner of an officially accredited Fiat dealership. The vehicle featured in the inflated online listing was also seized during the operation.

Following the completion of all legal procedures and in close coordination with judicial authorities, the suspects were brought before the competent Public Prosecutor. They now face formal charges of illegal speculation, a criminal offense under Algerian economic law. The prosecutor ordered their detention at a correctional and rehabilitation facility pending further legal action.

About Dzair Tube Media Group

Dzair Tube has firmly positioned itself as a leading force in Algerian digital journalism, delivering a rich and diverse array of content. Available in Arabic, French, and English, Dzair Tube captivates a broad audience, drawing over half a million daily clicks.

The platform’s excellence was notably recognized with the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This accolade underscores Dzair Tube’s steadfast commitment to the highest journalistic standards.

Dzair Tube’s substantial online footprint includes 350,000 YouTube subscribers, over six million followers across various Facebook pages, and 450,000 Instagram followers. The digital channel serves as a nexus for a wide range of programming, spanning news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a diverse audience.

Boasting cutting-edge studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has attracted a significant viewership with its varied programs. It facilitates interactive discussions with key figures from various sectors, promoting public discourse and engagement. Beyond news, Dzair Tube excels in producing marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership shows.

The print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further attests to the platform’s influence, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.

Awarded the Media Leadership Award by the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the Algerian digital media landscape, maintaining its position of influence and impact. Additionally, Dzair Tube’s prominence in Algeria’s media scene was celebrated at the ninth edition of the “Hilals of the Television” competition, solidifying its status as a media leader.

Stay Connected with Dzair Tube