Algeria’s intelligence chief Athmane Tartag fired: Reports

This is seen as a move to sideline former President Bouteflika’s allies as demanded by protesters.

Athmane Tartag has been fired as the Algerian intelligence chief, according to local media reports.

Tartag is a retired army general and was considered a close aide to former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.

The move may disappoint Algeria‘s military if it was hoping that Bouteflika’s resignation earlier this month would dampen enthusiasm for anti-government protests.

Al Jazeera’s Bernard Smith reports.