Algeria vehicle thefts: Car parts stripped from parked vehicles

A wave of unusual vehicle thefts is causing concern across Algeria, with reports of cars being stripped of parts while parked on public streets. Recent incidents have been documented in Algiers, specifically in the Garidi 1 neighborhood of Kouba, where multiple Audi A3 vehicles had several doors removed.

Similar reports of parts being stolen have emerged from Tipaza, Oran, and Annaba. The thefts are not limited to doors; criminals are also targeting headlights, rearview mirrors, wheels, and electronic equipment. These incidents typically occur at night in poorly lit alleys or quiet parking areas.

While no official investigation has confirmed the buyers of these stolen components, some observers suggest the thefts may be driven by a shortage of spare parts in the country. This follows a previous crackdown by the Algiers National Gendarmerie in March 2025, which dismantled networks specializing in the theft and resale of entire vehicles.