Algeria says it has dismantled a cell linked to the Movement for the Self Determination of Kabylie (MAK), with authorities announcing the arrest of six suspects, including four Moroccan nationals allegedly living in the country without legal documentation.
In a statement released on Monday, Algeria’s Ministry of Defence said the group was arrested in the province of Tizi Ouzou and accused its members of belonging to what it described as a criminal network affiliated with MAK, an organization Algeria classifies as a terrorist group.
Algeria Says MAK Cell Sought to Disrupt Elections
According to the ministry, the suspects were active during the country’s recent legislative elections and allegedly planned to disrupt the electoral process and discourage citizens from participating in the vote.
Officials said the operation was carried out by security forces as part of ongoing efforts to protect national security and maintain public order during the elections.
The ministry praised the country’s security agencies for what it described as their vigilance in preventing activities aimed at undermining Algeria’s stability.
Four Moroccan Nationals Among Those Arrested
Algerian authorities said the group included four Moroccan nationals who were allegedly residing in Algeria illegally.
The ministry did not provide additional details about the identities of the suspects or the evidence supporting the allegations.
The announcement comes against the backdrop of continued tensions between Algeria and Morocco, whose diplomatic relations have remained severed since August 2021.
Diplomatic Tensions Continue
Relations between the two North African neighbours have deteriorated in recent years, with Algeria repeatedly accusing Morocco of supporting organizations it considers a threat to national security. Morocco has previously rejected similar accusations.
Since diplomatic ties were cut, Algerian authorities have announced several arrests involving Moroccan nationals on allegations ranging from illegal residency to espionage and terrorism related offences.
Security Crackdown Continues
Algerian authorities have also increased enforcement against undocumented migrants in recent years, including Moroccan citizens who entered the country seeking employment, particularly in the construction sector.
Officials say investigations into the latest arrests are ongoing, while no immediate response from Moroccan authorities had been reported at the time of publication.
