12,000 Syrian refugees in Algeria

DHAKA: More than 12,000 Syrians fleeing the violence in their home country have sought refuge in Algeria, a source close to the interior ministry said on Sunday.

The authorities have decided to ‘take charge of Syrians who have sought refuge in Algeria, and whose number is estimated officially at 12,000,’ the source told media, reports The Straits Times.

The Syrian opposition sources say the number at up to 20,000.

Algiers is considering using schools that are closed for the summer to house Syrians who are currently in the capital.

Syrian opposition sources inside Algeria say many of their countrymen are also present in other towns in the North African nation, and say they number between 18,000 and 20,000.

BDST: 2112 HRS, JUL 29, 2012

Edited by Robab Rosan, Cultural Affairs Editor