Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj arrested on corruption charges

TIRANA, Feb. 10, 2025 – The mayor of Tirana, Erion Veliaj, was arrested Monday afternoon by order of the Special Prosecutor’s Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK). 

Judicial police officers entered Veliaj’s office at around 2 p.m. and escorted him to a detention facility. An arrest warrant has also been issued for his wife, Ajola Xoxa, who is reportedly outside Albania.

In December, prosecutors revealed evidence implicating Veliaj and his family members in multiple criminal offenses, including “passive corruption,” “active corruption,” “money laundering” and “concealment of assets.”

This is a developing story. Subscribers can read our full analysis here.

Original post Here

News
Tensions rise during separate protests in Tirana

Two separate protests took place in Tirana on Saturday. Students, lecturers and citizens gathered outside the Ministry of Education for the 19th consecutive day, demanding political change, the prime minister’s resignation and better living and education conditions. Meanwhile, the main opposition party held a rally outside the Prime Minister’s Office. …

News
US Embassy warns of violence risk as protests continue in Tirana

The US Embassy in Tirana has urged American citizens to avoid protest areas, warning that demonstrations could escalate into violence and disrupt traffic and public services. In an official security alert, the embassy said protests continue in central Tirana and near government institutions. Some demonstrations have turned violent, with reports …

News
Ibrahimaj calls for stronger regional cooperation to expand opportunities for women entrepreneurs

Albania’s Minister of Economy and Innovation, Delina Ibrahimaj, has called for stronger regional cooperation to help women entrepreneurs grow their businesses and access new markets. She made the statement at the fourth edition of the regional conference “SHE RISES”, held in Pristina, Kosovo. The event brought together women entrepreneurs, government …