Algeria takes stringent measures against sand smugglers

Stringent measures have been taken to counter sand smuggling in Boumerdes province (50km east of Algiers) as it has something to do with terror networks, according to Attorney General at a court in Boumerdes.

• Stringent measures have been taken to counter sand smuggling in Boumerdes province (50km east of Algiers) as it has something to do with terror networks, according to Attorney General at a court in Boumerdes.
• M. Boumediene Bacha told Echorouk magistrates were ordered to be severe in handling sand smuggling cases. “We focus now on catching smugglers red-handed and immediately seizing their trucks. The, they will be introduce to justice with tough punishments.”
• He added that those measures were adopted after they had achieved positive tangible results in the fight against theft.
• Speaking on relation between sand smugglers and the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC), the Attorney General said previously there were doubts on its involvement in smuggling but “we have taken stringent measures to cut any tie between smugglers and terrorists.”
• He indicated the increasing number of kidnappings for ransom as Boumerdes is the GSPC’s main stronghold. On the other hand, he did not exclude that criminals carry out their acts as if they are terrorists. “Justice is mobilised to fight crime in all its forms.”
• An official at the provincial group of the National Gendarmerie in Boumerdes said police and customs had launched joint security campaigns to counter sand smuggling. Surveillance has also been tightened up on traffic along with mobile security check points.
• Trucks loaded with sand are inspected and patrols are intensified in beaches especially the isolated ones late in the morning or at night.