A viral video showing animal remains inside a university dorm room in Laghouat has been officially explained, with authorities confirming the carcass belonged to a calf used in a student experiment. Local media reported the incident on April 5, 2026, after images sparked confusion and concern among students.
The footage, widely shared on social media, showed what appeared to be the skeletal remains of a large mammal lying on the floor of a student room at the Kamim Ahmed university residence in southern Algeria. The disturbing visuals led to speculation ranging from criminal activity to alleged occult practices, with some users claiming the situation was “suspicious.”
In response to the growing panic, the Director of University Services (DOU) in Laghouat visited the residence following instructions from the National Office for University Services. According to an official statement published on Facebook, the remains were identified as belonging to a calf. Authorities clarified that first-year veterinary medicine students had conducted a dissection as part of a scientific exercise.
However, the explanation has raised further concerns about supervision and compliance with academic protocols. Such dissections are typically required to take place in designated laboratories, not student living quarters. Questions have also emerged regarding how the animal was brought into the residence and whether proper authorization had been obtained.
The DOU statement also highlighted a separate issue involving the video itself. Officials confirmed that the room had been forcibly entered and filmed without permission. The footage was then shared online in a manner described as misleading and intended to alarm students following the end of academic holidays.
Authorities have announced legal action against those responsible for breaking into the room and disseminating false or exaggerated information. The incident underscores both lapses in procedural oversight and the risks of viral misinformation within student communities.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.