Forest fires in northeastern Algeria have claimed 12 lives and injured many, according to government officials. The death toll has risen from earlier reports of two fatalities in coastal Bejaia province, near the capital Algiers. The interior minister, Said Sayoud, confirmed the figures during a televised address.
The fires spread across three provinces, with five deaths recorded in Jijel, four in Bejaia, and three in Tizi Ouzou. Local media had initially reported fewer casualties, but the updated figures reflect the full impact of the disaster. Authorities are working to contain the blazes, which have caused significant damage to the region.
Emergency services are on high alert as the situation continues to evolve. The cause of the fires remains under investigation, with officials emphasizing the need for swift action to prevent further loss of life. The government has pledged support for affected communities.
Efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and provide aid to those impacted. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of managing natural disasters in the region.
