At least 11 policemen were injured in clashes in the Saharan city of Ghardiaia over the weekend. Fighting between Malakites and Ibadites has raged in the area since December, killing at least 13 people and injuring over 400; some blame religious extremists, including Salafists, for the ongoing conflict. Foreign Minister Lamamra claimed that Algeria is making “huge efforts” to secure its borders, but replied evasively when questioned about the presence of jihadists in Algeria.
