Fire Sweeps through Trees in Algeria, Hundreds Flee Home

Huge fire broke out in Algeria, late on Friday, in the forests and woodlands of the cities of Oran, Tipaza, Tlemcen, and Bejaia.

The fire sparked considerable debate on social media concerning the causes and whether it was a foul play or not.

Many pictures and videos circulated of fires that broke out and devoured hundreds of hectares across the western and central states of the country.

The Algerian TV website mentioned that “the reason of the fires is still unknown,” and confirmed the immediate intervention of firefighters.

Earlier, the government officials indicated that many of the fires are "contrived" and aim to inflame public anger and sow chaos.