Algerian rights group accuses authorities of torturing whistleblowers in Tindouf aid scandal

An Algerian human rights organization has called on authorities to launch an urgent and transparent investigation into allegations of torture and ill-treatment made by two former Algerian Red Crescent employees who exposed alleged corruption in humanitarian aid destined for the Tindouf refugee camps.

In a statement this week, Shoaa for Human Rights said that Yassine Ben Chettah, a former programs director, and Hajar Zitouni, former head of communications, were insulted, intimidated, and psychologically pressured by police officers after revealing suspected embezzlement and diversion of aid meant for Sahrawi refugees.

The group said it is following the case with “deep concern,” noting that both whistleblowers were subjected to “humiliation, degrading treatment, and psychological pressure” during questioning at the National Gendarmerie’s investigation unit in Algiers.

Shoaa criticized what it described as “the instrumentalization of justice” against whistleblowers instead of protecting them, saying the court’s handling of the case raises serious concerns about due process and freedom of expression.

According to the organization, Ben Chettah and Zitouni uncovered serious irregularities within the Algerian Red Crescent in 2023, including alleged mismanagement and diversion of aid intended for Sahrawi refugees in Tindouf and humanitarian relief for Gaza.

After reporting the abuses to the presidency and relevant authorities, and sharing their testimonies on social media, both were prosecuted instead of the alleged perpetrators, Shoaa said.

In May 2024, Ben Chettah was sentenced to two years in prison, one year suspended, and fined 100,000 Algerian dinars, while Zitouni received one year, half suspended, and a 50,000-dinar fine. They were convicted of spreading false news, defamation, and publishing allegedly hateful or discriminatory content online.

Following their release, both shared detailed accounts on Facebook describing their detention, alleging verbal abuse, sleep deprivation, intimidation, and humiliation, as well as investigative methods that violated their dignity.

Shoaa said these acts amount to cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment under international law and could be considered torture if confirmed, especially when used to extract statements or confessions.

The organization stressed that the alleged practices represent “a clear violation” of Algeria’s Constitution and its international obligations, including the 1989 Convention Against Torture and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, both of which guarantee protection of physical and mental integrity and freedom of expression.