Antigua and Barbuda Embassy Assists Citizen Detained in Spain

The Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda in Madrid provided diplomatic assistance that contributed to the release of an Antigua and Barbuda citizen detained in Spain while facing possible extradition to Algeria.

Ayoub Aissiou, who is also a lawful resident of France, had been deprived of his liberty pending extradition proceedings initiated at the request of Algerian authorities.

Antigua and Barbuda’s Ambassador to Spain, Dr Dario Item, formally raised the matter with Spanish authorities after concerns emerged about the potential consequences of returning Aissiou to Algeria.

Those concerns included Aissiou’s journalistic background, allegations of political persecution and reported threats to his life and physical safety.

In a diplomatic communication dated August 17, 2026, Item appealed to Spain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation for urgent consideration of the case.

While acknowledging the independence of the Spanish judiciary, the ambassador asked that attention be given to the political, humanitarian and family circumstances surrounding the extradition request.

The embassy also requested that Spanish authorities consider granting Aissiou provisional release while the extradition proceedings were being addressed.

Aissiou is associated with Al Djazairia One, an independent Algerian media outlet whose editorial position has reportedly been critical of the Algerian authorities.

He left Algeria in 2019 and subsequently applied for international protection in France, citing political persecution and serious threats to his life.

The embassy said those concerns predated his arrest and the extradition request and could be independently verified through the relevant French authorities.

Aissiou’s family circumstances were also presented for consideration. His wife and two daughters are citizens of Antigua and Barbuda, while his mother and several other relatives legally reside in Spain and France.

The embassy indicated its willingness to cooperate with Spanish authorities and provide any legally appropriate assurances necessary to ensure Aissiou remained available while the matter was under consideration.

Aissiou was subsequently released. The development reflects the consular and diplomatic support provided by the Embassy of Antigua and Barbuda in Madrid to citizens facing legal difficulties overseas.