Algerian President Tbon Rules Out No Criminal Hand Behind Wildfires

Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune stated that he does not exclude the possibility of criminal elements being behind the wildfires currently burning across multiple provinces.

Speaking during a visit to a hospital where he inspected the condition of injured individuals, Tebboune told the Algerian News Agency: “It is not unlikely that criminal hands triggered these fires, especially given the force with which they erupted.”

He added that “necessary investigations will be carried out” into the matter. He also noted that wind conditions have complicated firefighting efforts.

Wildfires in northern Algeria

Forest fires occur repeatedly each summer in northern Algeria, driven by rising temperatures, falling humidity levels, and strong winds—factors that heighten both the risk of ignition and the speed of fire spread.

Extensive wildfires in recent years have resulted in dozens of fatalities and caused widespread damage to forests, agricultural land, and property. In response, authorities have strengthened prevention and monitoring measures and increased the readiness of firefighting teams and equipment.