Deux criminels qui tentaient d’exfiltrer un baron de la drogue éliminés à Tlemcen
Summary of the Incident Involving a Drug Baron in Tlemcen, Algeria
On March 27, 2025, a significant law enforcement operation took place in Bab-El-Assa, Tlemcen, Algeria, targeting a notorious drug baron. This operation, executed by a unit of the Gendarmerie nationale, was part of ongoing efforts to combat organized crime in the region. The information leading to this operation was derived from intelligence reports indicating the whereabouts of the drug lord, identified as Malou Imam. Imam had multiple outstanding arrest warrants against him for various criminal activities.
During the operation, law enforcement surrounded a house in the village of Slam, believed to be the hideout of Imam. Inside the residence, Imam was accompanied by his brother, Malou Ilyes. When confronted by the gendarmerie personnel, Imam opened fire, injuring one officer in the process. The wounded officer was promptly transported to a hospital in Maghnia before being transferred to a military hospital in Oran to receive further medical treatment.
As the situation escalated, Imam attempted to escape in a Renault 25 vehicle with two associates. In response, the gendarmerie opened fire on the vehicle, resulting in the deaths of both accomplices—Ghattasse Mohamed and Nemraoui Mohamed—who were attempting to facilitate the drug baron’s escape. Despite the ensuing chaos, Malou Imam managed to flee the scene.
After securing the area, the gendarmerie stormed the house, capturing Malou Ilyes, who had sustained minor injuries during the exchange of gunfire. This operation yielded significant results: law enforcement recovered an automatic pistol, a utility vehicle, fourteen mobile phones, a bill-counting machine, and other evidence likely related to criminal activities.
The operation demonstrated the professionalism, vigilance, and constant readiness of the Algerian Armed Forces stationed along the country’s borders in their ongoing struggle against various forms of organized crime. Notably, this operation occurred during the sacred month of Ramadan, underscoring the commitment of these forces to maintain security and order within the nation.
The incident reflects the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in combating drug trafficking and related violence, which continue to pose significant threats to national security and public safety in Algeria.
