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Algeria introduces the death penalty for forest fires and child abduction
The death penalty for forest fires and child abduction has entered into force in Algeria after amendments to the Penal Code were published in the Official Gazette. The measure covers intentional fires that cause loss of life, as well as people who encourage, finance or facilitate these crimes.
New provisions concerning forest fires and child abduction in Algeria took effect after amendments to the Penal Code were published in the latest issue of the Official Gazette. Parliament’s two chambers approved the amendments last week.
Broad scope for fire-related offenses
The new provisions impose the death penalty on anyone who intentionally sets fire to forests, scrubland, cultivated or uncultivated fields, or trees and timber in forests.
Intentionally setting fire to public or private property on the instructions of, or for the benefit of, a state or foreign party is also covered by the same provisions. Acts committed as part of treason or in cooperation with organized criminal groups are likewise included.
Fires that harm national security, public order, national unity, the stability of institutions, the national economy or the environment are covered by the measure, as are fires that destroy forest, plant, animal and agricultural resources.
People who encourage, support, finance or plan a fire, as well as those who prepare for it, contribute to the act or facilitate it by any means, may face the same penalty. Contributions provided through communication technologies and digital platforms are also specifically addressed in the provisions.
The death penalty will also apply when an intentionally started fire causes the death of one or more people.
Death penalty provision for child abduction
The provision covering child abduction applies not only to people who abduct a child by any means, but also to those who torture, sexually assault or mistreat the child. The death penalty will be applied independently of other penalties in force.
The amendments also prevent people convicted of these crimes from benefiting from the discretionary mitigation provisions in the Penal Code.
Directive issued after forest fires
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune had ordered the reintroduction of the death penalty for the relevant crimes after extensive forest fires, particularly in the country’s eastern provinces, caused loss of life and property.
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