Oran: controversy after the destruction of the Sidi Abdelkader mausoleum, investigation underway
via Algérie3602 min read
A judicial and administrative investigation has been launched in Marsat El Hadjadj, Oran, following the demolition of the "Sidi Abdelkader" mausoleum, located within a children's cemetery. The incident, documented live on social media, has raised concerns about heritage protection and the influence of extremist groups. The widespread video of the demolition and accompanying strong comments led to a national outcry. A joint commission comprising the National Gendarmerie, the Directorate of Culture and Arts, and the Directorate of Religious Affairs of the wilaya of Oran visited the site. Investigators, accompanied by cultural experts, assessed the damage in the "Hassasna" area. According to El Khabar, the investigation extends beyond material damage to determine administrative responsibilities. The president of the Communal Popular Assembly of Marsat El Hadjadj and several local officials have been questioned to ascertain if the demolition was an official municipal decision or an isolated act without legal approval. Authorities and civil society are particularly concerned about the ideological context, as radical and takfirist groups, who label mausoleum visitors as "Quburiyyin" tomb worshippers, widely shared the demolition video and advocate for the destruction of such structures, which they deem contrary to Islamic precepts. The Directorate of Culture will determine the mausoleum's protected heritage value, while the Directorate of Religious Affairs works to ease community t
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