5 al-Qaeda militants killed in clashes with Algerian army

10 members left wounded in the most recent attacks Operations launched by the Algerian army against al-Qaeda militants in the highlands of Khenchela, north east of Algeria, continue. The death toll of al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb members rose to five in the most recent attack, whilst 10 have been left wounded. Police also seized weapons following the attack including two Kalashnikovs.
Meanwhile, talks were held on Tuesday between Algeria's Interior Minister Dahou Ould Kabliaand and his Tunisian counterpart, Ali Laarayedh on the security situation in the border area between the two countries. According to sources, the Algerian side have expressed concerns over the activities of al-Qaeda in the region.
The two ministers discussed a number of issues of common interest, including securing the border between the two countries from the threat of al-Qaeda.
In a press statement, the Algerian Interior Minister said that his talks with his Tunisian counterpart included "crucial and very important" issues regarding the security situation in the light of the recent developments in Tunisia and the phenomenon of terrorism and organised crime.
Three elements of the armed organisation have been eliminated in the area of Bouchitane and Sayyar mountains, South of Khenchela, while security forces used warplanes and helicopters to destroy the hideouts of groups in the region.
The campaign resulted in the injury of five soldiers who were transferred immediately to the military hospital in the region - while the bodies of the armed group members were moved to the hospital of Khenchela in order to find out more about their identities. The fighting continued until Monday night and the army was supported by the Special Forces unit to eliminate the remnants of the group.
Major General Ahmed Boustila, the commander of the National Gendarmerie of Algeria took part in a meeting on Monday. The latter outlined a new security plan following the violence which has affected several regions of Tunisia and resulted in the dismantling of a terrorist network.
Major General Ahmed Boustila visited the states of Tebessa and Souk Ahras to enhance security measures and strengthen security plans along the border, after the Algerian-Tunisian border witnessed tensions last week.