Algeria: Extra security measures around embassies, airports, aetro stations to face up to any contingency

The Algerian security services have drastically beefed up security measures in and around the capital Algiers notably in the vicinity of European embassies and consulates, especially the French ones, as well as at the Houari Boumedienne international airport and near and inside the metro stations in addition to much frequented places like public squares and markets.

These unprecedented security measures were enforced at the request of European diplomatic representations based in Algeria in the aftermath of last Friday’s heinous terrorist attacks that hit the French capital Paris, which left 130 people dead and more than 300 wounded.

These extra security measures were undertaken under the strict instructions of the General Management of the National Security (DGSN) in a bid to secure these institutions by hiking the degree of preparedness and vigilance notably by relying on intelligence work so as to face up to any untoward contingency linked to terrorist violence.

Indeed, the intensity and horror of the terrorist attacks in Paris have prompted the Algerian authorities, through the security services, to respond quickly and take all appropriate measures to protect sensitive sites and institutions, to the example of the Presidency of the Republic, the Government Palace, the various ministries, the two Houses of Parliament, as well as the foreign diplomatic representations, and the ports and airports of the country, etc.

In this context, France’s ambassador in Algeria, his Excellency Bernard Emié urged the Algerian authorities to strengthen security around the French institutions in Algeria, like Embassies, Consulates, cultural Institutes as well as French schools and French Companies…

Also in this context, the Italian, the Spanish and Belgian embassies in Algeria also called for the bolstering of the security measures around their diplomatic compounds.

Mr Bernard Emié did not rule out the idea that those terrorists who committed the horrendous attacks in his country could commit other attacks targeting French nationals and facilities abroad.

He also advised his countrymen based in Algeria to stay calm, to be careful and respect the safety instructions regarding their movements.