On Nov. 22, thousands of Algerians demonstrated against AQIM and the lack of
government protection in Freha in the Kabylie region. Freha, located 130
kilometers east of Algiers, has been the target of AQIM abductions and other
operations, Middle East Newsline reported.
The protest by 2,500 Algerians was sparked by an attempted AQIM
abduction of a businessman in Freha. Hand Suleimana was killed during an
abduction attempt in mid-November. A second kidnapping victim was freed by
AQIM on Nov. 21.
Demonstrators said AQIM was helped by local criminals to target and
abduct businessmen and wealthy Algerians. They said the government has
refused to bolster security forces or enhance development of Kabylie, a
Berber-dominated region.
Officials acknowledged security problems in the mountains east of
Algiers. They said AQIM has focused on abductions to finance insurgency
attacks and recruitment.
"The problem is mostly in Boumerdes, Tizi Ouzou and Bouira, where the
terrorists receive help from some tribal elements," an official said.