Albanian police suspend Himara command chain over illegal construction

Albanian State Police Director General Skënder Hita has suspended the entire command chain of the Himara Police Commissariat. The disciplinary action follows the discovery of an unauthorized five-story building in Qeparo, Himarë.

The suspended officers include former Himara Police Chief Ferit Merkaj, Commissioner Emiljano Prenga, Deputy Commissioner Klodjan Petani, and Inspector Redin Çaushaj. Authorities allege the officers failed to take measures to prevent the illegal construction, which consists of one underground floor and four floors above ground.

A citizen from Laç, identified as L. B., was arrested in connection with the construction. Additionally, three inspectors from the Himara Municipal Construction Inspectorate (IMT) have been declared wanted for abuse of office. Investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of the negligence and potential criminal involvement.