Algeria busts terrorists bunkers, arrests suspected terrorists

Algerian anti-terrorism troops on Friday discovered a load of war weapons in the province of Tamanrasset, near the Malian border, while a group of six terror-supporting individuals were arrested in the province of Boumerdes, defense ministry said on Saturday.

Army troops deployed near the border with Mali discovered a terror bunker containing 22 war weapons and ammunition, said the ministry. Rocket launchers, machine guns of different calibers, and ammunition were retrieved.

This operation shows the commitment and determination of the People's National Army to secure the border and foil any attempt harming the integrity and security of national territory, the ministry said.

Elsewhere, in the northern province of Boumerdes, 55 km east of Algiers, six individuals were arrested over charges of providing support to terrorist groups.

This operation was conducted by joint security forces, as part of counter-terrorism efforts of army troops, the ministry said.

Located in a region plagued by unprecedented security and political instability, Algeria faces ongoing terrorist threats.

A few militants affiliated to al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb and recently established Islamic State affiliate group of Caliphate Soldiers are still taking refuge in the woods of central provinces, including Bouira, Boumerdes and Tizi Ouzou east of Algiers in addition to desert areas near the troubled Libya and Mali. Endit