Algerian Troops Kill 22 Islamist Militants in Large-Scale Counter-Terrorism Operation

Algerian security forces launched a major counter-terrorism operation in the Boukram forest, killing 22 Islamist militants in one of the largest such operations in years. The militants, believed to be members of the Caliphate Soldiers, an al Qaeda splinter group loyal to the Islamic State, were planning an attack on the capital of Algiers when they were attacked. Intelligence sources had informed the Algerian army about the meeting, leading to the successful operation.

Key Takeaways:

• The operation resulted in the death of 22 Islamist militants, believed to be members of the Caliphate Soldiers, an al Qaeda splinter group loyal to the Islamic State.
• The militants were planning to attack the capital of Algiers when they were intercepted by Algerian security forces.
• The operation was carried out in the Boukram forest in Boumerdes, about 20 kilometers from Algiers.
• Dozens of weapons and homemade bombs were seized during the raid.
• The Caliphate Soldiers kidnapped and killed a French tourist in September 2013, prompting Algerian troops to step up security operations in the region.
• The Algerian army is still pursuing other members of the group.
• The operation is one of the largest counter-terrorism operations in years, with the Algerian security forces killing at least 22 militants in one go.

Statistics:

• 22 Islamist militants were killed in the operation.
• The operation was carried out in the Boukram forest in Boumerdes, about 20 kilometers from the capital of Algiers.
• Dozens of weapons and homemade bombs were seized during the raid.
• The Caliphate Soldiers kidnapped and killed a French tourist in September 2013.
• The operation is one of the largest counter-terrorism operations in years.

Sources:

• Deutsche Welle
• All Africa Global Media (via COMTEX)
• Reuters
• Deutsche Welle (copyright)
• Distributed by AllAfrica Global Media (allAfrica.com)