Arrest in Neuchâtel: Searched Algerian caught after falsification of documents!

Arrest in Neuchâtel: Searched Algerian caught after falsification of documents!

On June 14, 2025, a arrest in Neuchâtel am Rhein occurred at the border crossing in Neuenburg on the Rhine, which attracted the attention of the authorities. A 63-year-old Algerian citizen was checked by the federal police in a coach from Spain and turned out to be a sought-after man. The arrest warrant against him had been issued for three years due to an outstanding fine of 2,800 euros, which he had not paid for after a conviction for falsification of documents in 2021 [news.de] (https://www.news.de/amp/lokales/858701491/blichttreport-aktuell-aus-neuenburg-am-am-16-2025- Festival-heute/1/).

The control took place as part of the usual security measures at the border, where the federal police officers routinely checked whether passengers of a coach were sought-after by another EU country. Since the man was unable to pay the requested fine on site, he now threatens a replacement imprisonment of several months, which is a direct consequence of the punishment that has not been paid. These circumstances have had the alarm bells ring at the responsible authorities in Neuchâtel.

The legal background

The procedure is embedded in the regulations of the European arrest warrant (EUHB), which enables judicial authorities in the EU to apply for the arrest and handover of people in other Member States. The goal is to enforce or enforce prison terms. The EUHB works according to the principle of mutual recognition of judicial decisions and applies in all EU countries. In this legal basis, the procedural rights of the suspect must remain preserved; This includes the right to information and the involvement of a lawyer and an interpreter, informed [e-justice.europa.eu] (https://e- justice.europa.eu/topics/court-procedures/criminal-cases/judicial-cooperation/european-arrest-warant_de).

The judges must therefore keep an eye on the deadlines: Within 60 days after the arrest, a decision on the enforcement of the arrest warrant should be made. If the arrested for the handover, this can even happen within only 10 days.

The consequences for the accused

For the 63-year-old, the arrest has different consequences. In addition to the impending imprisonment sentence, it could also be involved in an extradition procedure as part of the EUHB. This is a legally complex process, which, however, does not allow political influence. This gives the procedure a certain transparency, but is often a stressful situation for the individual.

The arrest and the upcoming process are also a reflection of the challenges that the EU faces in dealing with cross -border crime. While the goal of the rapid jurisprudence and law enforcement is retained, the rights of the suspects must always be preserved.