Oran currency-trafficking case: 120,000 euros seized before flight to Turkey

Three travelers heading for Istanbul ended their journey at the police station of Oran’s Ahmed Ben Bella Airport after officers found 120,000 euros hidden in their suitcases.

Police described the men as members of an organized cell involved in currency trafficking and the transfer of capital outside Algeria. Investigators had gathered intelligence in advance and increased surveillance around certain passengers in the departure hall after their behavior drew attention.

A search of the luggage confirmed the suspicions. The bundles of foreign currency had been wrapped and concealed among the contents of the suitcases, apparently to evade detection equipment and airport checks. The seized money was placed under seal while the legal process continues.

The suspects face possible charges under Algeria’s foreign-exchange legislation and rules governing the movement of capital abroad. Authorities described the operation as part of a broader effort to control financial flows at the country’s borders.

The case came a day after police at Algiers’ Houari Boumediene International Airport detained another passenger bound for Istanbul. That passenger allegedly carried 3,860 euros and 1,800 Turkish lira concealed in hand luggage. The money was also seized under established procedures.