Algeria’s president has called for the death penalty for those who intentionally start forest fires following a deadly blaze that killed at least 12 people and injured 54 in the northeast.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has ordered the justice minister to submit a proposal by September 15 to amend Algeria’s penal code, allowing the death penalty for those convicted of intentionally starting forest fires. This follows wildfires in northeastern Algeria that killed at least 12 people and injured 54. Currently, the law permits up to 30 years in prison or life imprisonment for such offenses. The president emphasized the need for stricter penalties, citing concerns that some fires may have been deliberately set, as evidenced by videos showing multiple blazes starting simultaneously around 1 a.m.
Tebboune also instructed provincial governors to provide all available information about the fires to security authorities. In response to the tragedy, he ordered compensation for affected families and the establishment of committees to assess losses and determine property damages. Authorities were directed to restore electricity, gas, water, and telecommunications in the affected areas by Saturday at the latest. The president stated that normal life should resume in the impacted regions within a week, following three days of national mourning for the victims.
Why it matters
The proposal directly affects those who may face severe legal consequences for intentional arson in Algeria.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.
What to watch
The justice minister’s proposal for penal code amendments is due by September 15.
This section reflects Dumpling editorial interpretation and is provided for context only.