Legal proceedings have officially been launched in Algeria following the submission of an investigation report into the July 5 Stadium tragedy, which left four supporters dead and over 80 injured during the closing match of the 2024–25 Ligue 1 season between MC Alger and NC Magra.
The judicial process was set in motion on Thursday after the Presidency of the Republic forwarded the findings of the investigative commission to the relevant legal authorities.
The aim is to identify those responsible for the fatal incident and ensure accountability.
The tragedy, which unfolded on 21 June 2025, triggered a wave of mourning across the country.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune swiftly expressed condolences to the families of the victims, stating his solidarity with the Mouloudia community, which has faced multiple moments of sorrow in recent months.
In response, President Tebboune directed the Ministry of the Interior, Local Authorities, and Regional Planning to form a commission tasked with uncovering the causes of the disaster.
The body was established under the directive of the Prime Minister the day after the tragedy.
Public concern grew rapidly as distressing footage circulated online, revealing deteriorated infrastructure at the stadium, particularly rusted railings in the upper tiers.
These visibly compromised barriers appeared unable to withstand the pressure of the large crowd present that day.
Questions were also raised regarding stadium overcapacity, with videos highlighting dangerously packed stands.
After just over a month of investigations, the commission submitted its final report to the Presidency, which subsequently announced on Wednesday evening that the dossier had been handed over to the judiciary.
In accordance with the instructions of the President of the Republic, Mr. Abdelmadjid Tebboune, a thorough investigation was conducted following the death of supporters at the July 5 stadium on June 21, 2025. The Presidency of the Republic informs the public that it has received the final report of the commission of inquiry, which has been forwarded to the competent judicial authorities, who are now responsible for taking the necessary legal measures,” the statement read.
On Thursday, July 31, the court of Bir Mourad Raïs confirmed that the case had been referred to the Public Prosecutor’s Office.
Legal proceedings are now underway under Articles 288 and 298 of the Algerian Penal Code, which address acts of negligence and failures leading to death and injury.
The announcement has been met with approval by the public and the Mouloudia fanbase, many of whom had grown concerned about efforts to shift blame onto MCA supporters.
The move is seen as a crucial step toward ensuring transparency, justice, and the prevention of similar tragedies in the future.
The July 5 incident, occurring just ahead of Algeria’s Independence and Youth Day, cast a sombre shadow over national celebrations.
With legal channels now mobilised, the government appears determined to fully uncover the truth behind the disaster.
