The World - News from Oct. 17, 1988

Algerian President Chadli Bendjedid ordered the release of about 500 youths arrested last week in rioting over the worsening economy. He also suspended all hearings before the special courts set up to try the youths, most of whom were arrested for looting and acts of vandalism during the unrest that began Oct. 4. In addition, the government ordered the release of all those imprisoned during the unrest who were not directly involved in the revolt and those “arrested for crimes of opinion.” More than 3,000 people were reported arrested in Algiers and provincial cities during the rioting over shortages, high prices and the government’s austerity program.