Ahmed Sifi
Ahmed Sifi was born on February 3, 1969, in Zemmuti Boumekede, Algeria. He was charged under Article 270 bis of the Italian Penal Code for his involvement in creating a logistical support network for the Salafist Group for Preaching and Combat (GSPC) in Italy. This organization was functionally connected to the international terrorist organization al-Qaeda and aimed at to carry out acts of violence against the Algerian state and engage in international terrorism.
His criminal activities are linked to an Islamic terrorist association primarily operating between Naples, Aversa, Milan, and Vicenza, from October 2001 to June 2005. This network emerged from the fragmentation of the Islamic Salvation Front (FIS) and focused on recruitment, the procurement of false documents, and the collection of funding for its operations. Investigations revealed a wide-ranging operation, predominantly through extensive telephone and environmental interceptions, demonstrating that this group has been rooted in Algeria for a considerable time. It has engaged in violent opposition against Algerian state institutions, employing terrorism to instill fear among the populace.
The GSPC is part of a complex organizational structure that includes various groups, such as FIS and GIA, and has connections in multiple countries beyond Algeria. The investigations established that this organization is linked to several cells in Italy, Belgium, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, each tasked with different responsibilities, such as consolidating support among Algerian expatriates, securing funding, recruiting personnel for Algeria, and establishing safe havens for individuals involved in combat or facing legal actions in their home countries. These cells did not function as independent entities; rather, they were part of a unified transnational structure, with distinct objectives, all focused on waging a holy war against apostates and non-believers.
The cell associated with the GIA-GSPC likely formed in Naples, where it maintained its operational base. From this center, funds collected across various Italian cities were transferred to Algeria to support jihadist fighters via a systematic transport line between Naples and Marseille. Additionally, basic documents were procured in Naples, which forgers used to create false identity papers for domestic and international distribution. Another critical activity of the cell involved acquiring propaganda materials to incite and prepare for Islamic jihad among Muslims living in Italy.
Intercepted conversations revealed discussions regarding a “national reconciliation” initiative, suggesting a form of amnesty for militants deemed illegal by Algerian authorities. Some factions within the organization appeared inclined to negotiate with authorities, while a more hardline faction in Milan consistently rejected any idea of compromise, insisting on the violent assertion of radical Islamic principles.
Ahmed was acquitted by the Court of Assizes in Naples of the charges attributed to him under Article 270 bis for lack of evidence, underscoring the complexities involved in prosecuting individuals associated with international terrorism.
