Albania: Allegations of police violence during student protests

Albania protests police violence student demonstrations Tirana human rights

An open letter addressed to the State Police and Tirana Police leadership has documented 32 alleged incidents of police violence occurring during student protests between October 13 and October 17. The letter, signed by the Res Publica Center, lawyers, and various citizens, calls for systemic investigations rather than just individual suspensions.

One specific case involves 21-year-old Muhamet Skana, who sustained skull and spinal fractures after being struck by a police officer near the Ministry of Education. His family alleges he was held at a police station for approximately three hours without medical attention before an ambulance was requested. The letter also raises concerns regarding unidentified plainclothes officers forcibly detaining youths.

Separately, the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare reported that three individuals—a police officer, a 15-year-old minor, and a media representative—were treated at the University Trauma Hospital following recent protests. The Ministry confirmed their conditions are stable and categorically denied social media rumors claiming the death of a minor.

Entities

Ministry of Health and Social Welfare · Muhamet Skana · Res Publica Center · State Police of Albania · Tirana

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[● 2 SOURCES] The condition of the three individuals at the hospital is stable.
[○ 1 SOURCE] Muhamet Skana sustained skull and spinal fractures following an encounter with police. citizens.al
[● 2 SOURCES] Three people—a police officer, a 15-year-old, and a media representative—were treated at the University Trauma Hospital.
[○ 1 SOURCE] The Ministry of Health denied reports that a minor had died during the protests.
[○ 1 SOURCE] An open letter documented 32 alleged incidents of police violence during protests from October 13 to 17. citizens.al