Special to WorldTribune.com

CAIRO — Algeria has reported foiling Al Qaida-aligned infiltration from Niger.

The Defense Ministry said at least 20 armed fighters were captured as they crossed the southern border with Niger.

The ministry said the suspected insurgency force entered Algeria in automobiles and motorcycles.

“Army units deployed along the borders have captured 20 people riding two vehicles and six motorbikes,” the Defense Ministry said.

The statement on Oct. 6 marked another reported success for Algerian border security units. Over the last two years, Algeria has been struggling with Al Qaida infiltration from Libya, Mali and Mauritania.

The infiltrators were identified as nationals from Chad and Sudan. The Defense Ministry did not report any casualties.

This marked the third Algerian border security operation along the Niger border in October. In two previous operations, the Algerian Army was said to have killed five fighters and captured seven.

“We call upon all members of the armed forces to be vigilant in confronting terrorism,” Algerian Chief of Staff Gen. Qaid Saleh said.

  Algeria captures Al Qaida infiltrators on motorbikes crossing border from Niger, Algerian border security, Gen. Qaid Saleh