Unrest erupts once again in Ghardaia

Violence acts have taken place in the province of Ghardaia (south of Algeria) for the second day as more than 50 shops were destroyed and 20 houses were burnt.

More than 25 people were wounded in clashes between residents and security forces.

Anti-riot policemen were deployed in the city’s main streets on Friday following rumors about possible violent acts.

Some residents blocked some main pathways and streets while security forces surrounded a number of areas in attempt to control the situation.

Sources at Ghardaia’s security department said a number of persons behind the violent acts were arrested. More than 20 involved people were identified and will be arrested soon. A list of their names was distributed to check points.

Additional anti-riot policemen were called in from the neighboring provinces of Biskra and Laghouat. Security forces were stepped up in a number of popular areas and nearby public institutions.

Earlier, the RCD’s federation called on political and security authorities to listen to residents’ representatives, be wise and treat the problems in Ghardaia in legal ways instead of violence.

It also called on residents to calm down the situation.