Algerian authorities intercept currency smuggling attempts at major airports

Algerian authorities have intercepted significant amounts of undeclared foreign currency at major airports during attempts to transport funds to Turkey.

At Houari Boumediene Airport in Algiers, border police intercepted a passenger, W. Mohamed Lamine, attempting to board a flight to Istanbul with 3,860 euros and 1,800 Turkish liras concealed in his hand luggage. The individual was charged by the Dar El Beida correctional court with violating legislation regarding the movement of capital to and from the country. The defendant claimed he intended to declare the funds but was prevented from doing so by the timing of his arrest.

In a separate incident at Ahmed Ben Bella Airport in Oran, police seized 120,000 euros from three travelers preparing to fly to Istanbul. The currency was found hidden within their suitcases. Authorities described the suspects as members of an organized cell involved in currency trafficking and the illegal transfer of capital across borders. The seizure follows intelligence-led surveillance of suspicious behavior in the boarding area. These operations are part of a broader strategy by Algerian authorities to tighten controls on financial flows at national borders.