(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) ALGIERS, March 9 (KUNA) -- The Algerian national museum for relics and Islamic arts in heart of the Algerian capital was vandalized late on Friday, the Ministry of Culture said in a statement on Saturday.
Culprits had stolen some items, set fire at offices at the building, torched documents and inflicted other forms of damage, it said noting that the attack and arson occurred in aftermath of a protest against President Abdelaziz Bouteflika.
Rapid intervention by civil defense units contained the fire and security personnel retrieved a priceless sword.
Authorities declared detaining 195 people in the capital at night on Friday, saying that the arrestees had joined public protests to carry out acts of sabotage.
Algeria, since February 22, has been witnessing public protests against Bouteflika's bid to retain the presidency for a fifth term. (end) mr.rk
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