Algerian Man Confesses to Arson in Exchange for French Visa

Omarani Abd El-Raouf, an Algerian man, has confessed to setting fires in the Bouchegouf area of Guelma province in February 2025, according to statements published by the Algerian Ministry of Defense. The fires were set in exchange for promises of a French visa and assistance with what he described as a 'white marriage.'

Abd El-Raouf revealed that he communicated with the terrorist Amir Boukhriss, also known as 'Amir Dized,' and others, including Zitoune and Hicham Aboud, through messages and apps like WhatsApp. He stated that Dized requested he set fires in Algeria, which initially surprised him. Dized promised Abd El-Raouf a visa to France and help with a 'white marriage' in return for starting a fire in Bouchegouf. Abd El-Raouf purchased 5 liters of gasoline and set the fire at approximately 3:00 PM.

Abd El-Raouf also mentioned additional communications with French entities. He claimed that a French official from the Ministry of the Interior contacted him, offering a luxury car and high-end accommodation in exchange for executing plans within Algeria. The official allegedly requested Abd El-Raouf to establish a communist party in Algeria, with a promise of providing all necessary facilities. This contact occurred after Dized reached out to Abd El-Raouf, asking him to prepare to work with the French.

Following the fire incident, Abd El-Raouf contacted Dized, who informed him that the event had gone unnoticed.

CONTEXT: This case highlights the complex interplay between terrorism, organized crime, and international relations, with allegations of foreign interference in domestic affairs and the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for political and criminal purposes.