Algerian police arrest 44 suspects in copper theft and gang crackdown

On 3 August 2026, the urban security service of the Wilaya of Chlef arrested two individuals caught stealing copper cables and equipment. The suspects were seized with about 25 kg of copper pipes and cables, along with additional stolen items that belonged to a public company, and were presented before the Chlef prosecutor.

In a separate large‑scale operation in Algiers, police dismantled six criminal networks linked to neighbourhood gangs. Forty‑two people were arrested and authorities seized 58 prohibited knives, 700 capsules of psychotropic substances, 15 g of cocaine, explosives, a tourist vehicle and cash exceeding 218 000 dinars. The detainees face charges including association of criminals, terrorism‑related offences and drug trafficking and have also been handed over to the prosecutor.