International networks target Algeria’s coral

Leader of sea fishing national union Hocine Belout Wednesday warned against coral stealing on Algerian coasts. International networks of Italian, Tunisian and French members collaborate with Algerians to steal the “red gold.”

Belout said the thieves follow many tips to execute their plans and market coral illegally in the US. More than 200 boats are used in those plans. They are deployed in El Kala, Annaba, Skikda and Bejaia.

Coral is extracted on a depth of 5 and 6 meters.

“El Kala has become a world capital for stealing coral,” he added.

The networks operate during the day and night. In the end 2000, two tons of red coral were seized in the province of Annaba, Italians and Algerians were arrested.

Belout criticized foreigners who conducted a recent study on 14 coasty provinces, saying it was useless for Algeria. “Foreigners are waiting for coral fishing to steal it. Because of that, they must be arrested.”

He suggested to deploy inspection points on national roads to arrest thieves. 

“If things are still neglected, Algeria’s fishing resources will disappear within the next 40 years. Strict measures should be taken to stop that,” he said.

He believes that smugglers pass by Tunisia as coral is mostly stolen on eastern coasts. More than 15 kg equal to around 1,800 euros are stolen every day.

Security forces have recently dismantled a network which possessed a workshop and swimming clothes used in stealing coral in Annaba and El Kala. A total of 16 kg of red coral were seized.